Adventure and Activity Travel Holidays

Mount Snowdon

2009-04-14T09:41:00.003+01:00

AwimAway have launched their first official fundraising event 'Trek 4a Cheque' in continuation of Harish Kohli's independent charitable ventures. Join Harish and the AwimAway team on an adventure to Snowdonia in north Wales and follow Harish to the summit of the tallest mountain in England and Wales- Mount Snowdon.
Get sponsored for the challenge and help to raise money for two fantastic children's charities, one at home- 'Sophie's Appeal', and one abroad- 'A Wa Po'.
Trek 4a Cheque to Mt Snowdon is on Saturday September 5th 2009. AwimAway have organised coach travel and basic accommodation to cost a total of £34. All information can be found at AwimAway.com- send in your sign-up form today to secure your place as spaces are limited.

Obama attention on Mexico

2009-03-25T10:03:00.000Z

In a bid to fight the drug cartels, to restrict drug trafficking and limit the amount of violence that spills over the border, President Obama’s administration has ordered around 500 agents and representatives to Mexico’s north-western borders.
The government has said it will increase the amount of US officials working within Mexico, raise the number of border agents, and pay for law enforcement along the south-western border.
Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton leaves for Mexico today to begin meetings on the drugs and violence issues.

Everest Base Camp

2009-03-24T13:24:00.001Z

Join the first ever 'AwimAway Exclusive' trek to Everest Base Camp on October 14th 2009. I will lead the trek, in my 'spiritual homeland', through majestic Himalayan scenery to the infamous Everest Base Camp. We will submerge into Himalayan life and culture, learn about the geography and climate of the region, and relish the challenges en route.
I will utilise my leadership and mountaineering expertise to assist you in this unique adventure, and can personally guarantee you an unforgettable travel experience.

Canadian Seal Hunt

2009-03-24T12:48:00.002Z

Canada’s controversial annual seal hunt has begun in Newfoundland and the Gulf of St. Lawrence whilst Animal Rights Activists and international bodies have continued to rally against imported seal products.
According to MSNBC news, the groups claim that the hunt is ‘cruel, difficult to monitor, ravages the seal population and doesn't provide a lot of money for sealers’. Even though it remains ‘the largest marine mammal hunt in the world’, it is claimed that the seal industry is ‘dying’ and thus ‘change is due’.
The hunt is defended by sealers and the Fisheries departments as a ‘good source of income for isolated fishing communities, humane and well-managed’.
Currently, the total allowable catch for the year is set to 280,000. In 2006 the 335,000 catch brought in around $25 million. The seal blubber is mostly used for oil, and seal pelts are generally used for the fashion industry in Norway, Russia and China
The Netherlands, Belgium and the USA ban seal products, many European Union countries do not import Canadian seal products, and Russia has recently stated it will ban baby-seal hunting

Rising sea levels in the Maldives

2009-03-18T10:11:00.000Z

BBC News has today reported how the Maldives is beginning a fight against global warming, namely rising sea levels. Some 80% of the archipelago is less than one metre above sea level, and coastlines are already creeping further inland. Houses are crumbling and there are very real fears that in the near future, some islands will have to be abandoned to the sea.
The country has a natural defence system in the form of coral reefs, though a sudden and sharp rise in sea temperature wiped most of it out around ten years ago. Marine Biologists are now making attempts to cultivate coral in research centres to gain knowledge on its protective role to hopefully implement as a defence to the region in the future.
Currently, temporary defences are being made via the dredging of sand from lagoons, and discussions are centring on whether to replicate the processes imposed onto Hulumale island- the whole island has been raised with sand, concrete and shingle.
President Mohamed Nasheed has recently stated that he hopes the Maldives will, within 10 years, become solely reliant on renewable energy sources, thus becoming the world’s first carbon neutral country. Although such progression will cost somewhere in the region of $1 billion, it is hoped that such a move will encourage further global action toward the preservation of the environment.

Dubai guides beahviour

2009-03-17T12:05:00.001Z

Last weekend Dubai announced its new guidelines for public behaviour, in an attempt to further balance the native culture and values with the recent insurgence of western tourism, norms and behaviour.
Although not yet law, media outlets detailed the list of no-no’s- covering dancing and playing loud music in public, pubic displays of romantic affection, dress codes (especially for women), swearing, and drinking alcohol outside licensed premises.
Dubai holds a unique position in the contemporary world: it is the place where a conservative Islamic East meets a liberal West. Dubai has often been the centre of controversy as it struggles to contend with the mix of cultures and public behaviour whilst representing itself as ‘the place to be’ for western tourism and enterprise. Recent headlines have centred on a British couples’ prosecution for having sex on a Dubai beach, and, offence has been taken to the more revealing dress of visitors.
It is unlikely that the restrictions will have any impact on the many resorts and nightclubs of Dubai.

Celebrations in Pakistan

2009-03-17T12:02:00.000Z

There were celebrations in Pakistan on Monday, as supporters of the Pakistan Muslim League learned Iftikhar Chaudhry was to be reinstated as chief justice in Islamabad. The government made the announcement in response to the consistent protests by political, legal and civic activists demanding his reinstatement. Pakistan’s previous military ruler, General Pervez Musharraf removed Chaudry from office in 2007 as he was considered a threat to his authority.
Chaudhry’s supporters welcome his return with relief and hope. The parties, music and cheer that have acknowledged his return symbolise the figure of hope he has become for a people. To a country that is facing severe economic hardships and a growing Islamic fundamentalist insurgency, Chaudhry is a ray of hope for preserving and affirming justice and fair treatment.

Teenagers smuggle weapons onto Qantas flight

2009-03-12T11:16:00.003Z

Travelmole has today reported that two boys aged 14 and 11 were able to smuggle stolen weapons onto a Qantas flight from Karratha to Perth on Monday. The youngsters allegedly had handguns, pistols, knives, 3000 rounds of ammunition and a variety of other weapons in their checked-in luggage which the “explosive trace detection” X-ray machines failed to pick-up.
They were arrested as they attempted to board a flight to Queensland.

'Shoe-Thrower' jailed for 3 years

2009-03-12T11:11:00.001Z

Muntandhar al-Zeidi, the Iraqi journalist who in December threw shoes at former US president George W. Bush, has today been jailed for three years. He was charged with ‘assaulting a foreign leader’.
In the immediate aftermath of the shoe-throwing, the reporter was detained in custody where he has since remained.
The judge rejected Zeidi’s defence lawyer’s argument that the ‘charge is invalid as Bush was not in Baghdad on an official visit’.

15 killed by teenage gunman

2009-03-12T11:09:00.001Z

A 17-year–old high school graduate yesterday went back to his old school in Winnenden, Germany and, during morning class, opened fire in three classrooms. Nine female students and three female teachers were killed instantly. Three other men were killed as the teenage gunman fled the scene.
Police said there appeared to be no immediate motive of the killer, though they are suspicious of the proportion of females murdered. Ammunition was left at the school, suggesting more killings may have occurred had the police not responded so quickly.

“Smallest Whale Shark Ever Recorded”

2009-03-11T10:30:00.000Z

Whale sharks frequent the east coast of the Philipines in December through to May- they are placid creatures that can grow to the size of a bus.
Thus, maritime officials and activists in Pilar were astounded when they rescued one the size of a forearm. Dubbed “arguably the smallest living whale shark in recorded history”, the 15-inch-long animal may be an indication that the coastline is a birthing ground for the species. If this is found to be true, the WWF have suggested that such ‘spawning grounds’ could become protected. Very little is known about whale sharks breeding and few baby whale sharks have ever been found.

Cuban Restrictions Relaxed

2009-03-11T10:25:00.000Z

U.S. Congress yesterday passed a bill that relaxes some of the previous restrictions placed on the communist island of Cuba. As soon as Obama signs it into law, Cubans will be better able to import agricultural and medical goods, and Cuban-Americans will be able to visit their families in Cuba for longer than 2 weeks, and annually as opposed to once every 3 years.
The Cuban exile community in Miami received the news with mixed reactions- with many welcoming the move toward closer relations with Washington, and other anti-communists opposing the relaxation of sanctions.

Dalai Lama reflects on deaths in Tibet

2009-03-10T12:10:00.002Z

The Dalai Lama marked the 50 year anniversary of Tibetan uprising against Chinese control with a solemn speech from his base in Dharamsala, India. The Tibetan spiritual leader stated that his people live in ‘constant fear’ of the ‘suspicious’ Chinese authorities, with Tibetan culture and identity under great threat of extinction. He reflected on, and paid tribute to, the hundreds of thousands of Tibetan people who have lost their lives since the Chinese communist troops took control of Tibet in 1950. He urged his people that justice will prevail if they to continue to follow the ‘The Middle Way’ and seek political autonomy through non-violent protest, negotiation and other peaceful means.
The Dalai Lama has been considered something of a ‘dangerous separatist obsessed with independence’ by Beijing- with only yesterday the Chinese President Hu Jinatao making a reference to the political issues in Tibet, calling for a “sturdy Great Wall against separatism”.

Mosque bombed in Sri Lanka

2009-03-10T09:44:00.000Z

Ten people were killed and three government ministers were injured today when a bomb exploded outside a mosque in the town of Akuressa, southern Sri Lanka. The blast occurred during the Islamic celebration of Mawlid, where many civilians and government officials were present to commemorate the prophet Mohammed’s birthday.
The explosion is being regarded as a Tamil Tigers suicide bomber attack, suggested to be a reaction to governmental action in the northeast of the country- the routing-out of the Tamil Tigers from their last stronghold.
The Tamil Tigers have been engaged in fighting for an Independent state for the Tamil minority since 1983.
Tamil Tiger spokespeople have not yet been available for comment.

Thailand visas temporarily free

2009-03-05T10:46:00.000Z

From March 4th 2009 to June 4th 2009, travellers to Thailand will not have to pay for a visa.
In an attempt to boost tourism and in reaction to the global economic crisis and recent political protests, Thailand will not be charging visa fees for this temporary period.

Aid ordered out of Darfur

2009-03-05T10:43:00.001Z

Lifesaving operations in Darfur were significantly reduced yesterday as the Sudan ordered 10 leading international humanitarian organisations to leave. Fears are now arising that the removal of aid agencies from the conflict-ridden region could have disastrous consequences- potentially leaving millions without the basics of food, water and shelter.
The orders for with-drawl occurred after an arrest warrant was issued by the International Criminal Court to the country’s president for alleged atrocities in Darfur. Aid groups remain defiant stating that they have no connection to the court, and that their services are essential to the survival of many people in Darfur.

Indian objection to auction of Ghandi’s possessions

2009-03-04T12:07:00.000Z

The Wall Street Journal today reported that Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi’ s trademark round glasses, pocket watch, sandals, brass bowl and plate are due to be sold at a New York auction house tomorrow, sparking opposition from the Indian government.
Navjivan, a public trust started by Gandhi in 1992 filed a petition that made claims to his belongings enabling a New Delhi Court to yesterday issue an injunction against the sale.
Tushar Gandhi, the great-grandson of Gandhi, has also instigated a campaign to raise funds to buy the personal items of his great-grandfather, stating that the sale of them would be “immoral” as they “belonged to India and the people of India”.
Discussions are still taking place over the future of the infamous peace-leaders belongings.

Africa Tourism Minister of the Year 2009: Kenya’s Balala

2009-03-04T11:24:00.002Z

Najib Balala, Kenya’s tourism minister, has been named 2009 Africa Tourism Minister of the Year, an award which recognises his achievement in making an outstanding contribution to the growth of sustainable tourism investment in Africa. Balala was a leading figure in the implementation of government policy on promoting sustainable tourism, and led the tourism recovery programme in Kenya in 2008.
Kenya suffered greatly from the post election crisis where over 1000 people lost their lives and 350,000 found themselves without a home. Tourism dramatically declined, tourism related businesses were hit hard, many people lost their jobs and consequently Kenya’s economy and identity was negatively affected.

Balala was recognised as being successful in his efforts to assist the promotion of Kenya as an eco-friendly tourist destination, as well as the positive impact his contributions made to businesses, employment, the economic systems and, predominantly, the perception of Kenya as a tourist-friendly country once again.

Marine life marooned in Tasmania

2009-03-03T16:05:00.000Z

According to a report published today by The Times newspaper, conservationists in Australia have deemed the stranding of 200 whales and dolphins on Naracoopa Beach in Tasmania, ‘suspicious’.
Wildlife rescue teams and local people were able to save and return to the ocean, 54 whales and five dolphins, though the remainder of the 192 creatures had died before the rescue teams could reach them.
A thorough enquiry into the mass stranding has been requested by conservationists due to fears that the root cause may be human disturbance, citing ‘industrial activity’ and the ‘use of military sonar devices’ as prime suspects.
Another possibility to the cause of the marooned animals is climate change - with the changes in water temperature causing whales and dolphins to divert from their usual routes and travel into ‘unchartered territory’, namely near to unknown coastlines.
However, mass stranding may be linked to group behaviour, and the ‘follow the leader’ psychology of these species. It may simply be a natural event, the result of a ‘navigational error’.
The Times continues to state that Tasmania may account for 80% of all Australian strandings, with four significant incidents having occurred in recent months.

Plane Stupid Airport Protest

2009-03-03T16:04:00.000Z

Flights were disrupted at Aberdeen Airport today since the campaign group Plane Stupid began their protest on the tarmac at 0315 this morning. The group oppose the expansion of the airport.
BAA has reported that departures to Amsterdam, Heathrow and Paris have been delayed by the protest, and no flights have been able to arrive since it began.
Although most of the protestors voluntarily ended their protest at around 8am this morning, Grampian Police stated that two remain on the roof of the main terminal building.

Pay to pee with Ryanair

2009-03-03T15:55:00.002Z

Budget air carrier Ryanair has announced that it may begin charging for the use of their on-board toilet facilities. During a BBC television interview Michael O’Leary, the airlines’ chief executive, stated “One thing we are looking at is the possibility of maybe putting a coin slot on the toilet door so that people might actually have to spend a pound to spend-a-penny in the future.”
Ryanair has also recently said that it is to close all of the Ryanair check-in desks at airports as part of a bid to reduce customer services and promote online check-ins.

Two schoolchildren killed in Somalia

2009-02-26T12:45:00.001Z

Yesterday, in Mogadishu Somalia an artillery shell landed on a school killing two students under 10 years old and injuring four others.
The tragedy occurred during the second day of warring between Islamist insurgents and AU peacekeepers

Mutiny in Bangladesh

2009-02-26T12:41:00.000Z

Shooting erupted in Dhaka, Bangladesh today as the country’s border guards continued their mutiny over pay. This morning, mutineers targeted the residence of the commanding officer in Tekhnaf. Reports also suggest that violent clashes occurred at border guard posts around the country.

Turkish Airlines plane crash

2009-02-25T11:06:00.001Z

A Turkish Airlines plane crash-landed today on route into Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport. Airline officials have reported that of the passengers on board, suggested to be at least 135, one has been killed and at least 20 injured.
The Boeing 737-800, which left Istanbul at 7.55am local time, broke into 3 pieces when it landed in a field near the airport. Passengers were seen to be walking away from the wreckage and then sifting through the luggage that had been strewn around the area.

Maoris rights to haka

2009-02-25T10:42:00.001Z

Last week, in a move to prevent its commercial exploitation, the government of New Zealand assigned intellectual property rights to the Ka Mate haka. The rights were passed over to a North Island Maori tribe along with NZ $121 million and property in both the North and South Islands. Maori celebrations were invigorated last weekend (19-22nd Feb) at the Biennial Festival and the Kapa Haka Championships, where tens of thousands of people arrived in the town of Tauranga to delight in four days of performing arts, competitions, music, dance and chants.

Fresh Bushfires in Australia

2009-02-25T10:40:00.001Z

Southern Australia continues the fight to control new bushfires, with one fresh blaze occurring dangerously near a densely populated residential area close to Melbourne.
Rising temperatures and powerful winds have enabled terrifying conditions for the fires to remain strong. Although the fire brigades are reporting that they are gaining control over the infernos, four major sites remain alight and warnings have been released that temperatures are predicted to increase to over 32C.

Brazil's Carnival 2009

2009-02-24T12:13:00.001Z

On Saturday 21st of Feb Brazil’s 2009 carnival began in what has commonly become known as the ‘Carnival Capital of the World’. The streets of Rio de Janeiro were decorated in vibrant colour and alive with the sounds of the Samba.
The festivities permeate almost every residency and business in the vicinity, people turning out in their droves to celebrate the final big party before Lent begins tomorrow on Ash Wednesday. The carnival represents a climax of debauchery, a final binge of self-indulgent pleasure which ends on ‘Fat Tuesday’ (today) , 40 days before Easter, thus a day before abstinence from ‘pleasures of the flesh’ begins.
For 4 days carnival- goers dress in outrageously-loud glittering, feathered costumes and swing their hips to the Capoeira, while the bands belt out the traditional energising sounds that the procession has become infamous for. The celebrations are said to attract around 500,000 foreign visitors per year, and is the most popular festival for the residents of Rio. The carnival is rich in Brazilian culture artistically revered, and is often considered as the ‘greatest carnival in the world’.

Elephant rumbles signal hope

2009-02-19T15:05:00.000Z

The unique natural phenomena exhibited by elephants- the ability to communicate through seismic social calls, otherwise known as ‘rumbles’ in the ground- has been harnessed by Zoologists in Namibia and could be used to save the species.
They found that bull elephants responded directly and intensely to a simulation of the rumbles produced by a female in a state of sexual readiness (which only happens once every 5 years). The bulls changed direction and headed for the origin of the artificially created ground vibrations.
The experiment has been an exciting development and could indicate a tool for keeping elephants, and farmlands, safe. The animals are often considered something of a pest to farmers in Africa- elephants are often found trampling on crops and breaking water installations, which can lead to them being shot. The findings could also be employed to assist bringing stray elephants back within the boundaries of Etosha National Park.

China Eco-Adventures

2009-02-18T14:40:00.001Z

The China National Tourism Association (CNTA) decided 2009 to be “Chinese Ecotourism Year”, encouraging citizens to “be a green traveller and experience eco-civilisation”.
China is fast becoming one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, thus it may be of little surprise that many environmentalists and NGOs are focusing their efforts towards Chinese tourism. The number of eco-lodges and organic farms are increasing, the WWF are training native guides within nature reserves, and the development of scenic areas into such eco-tourism sites will undoubtedly contribute positively to the economic conditions of the rural communities.
While China continues to promote and develop it’s environmentally friendly tourism projects it is yet to develop a system of recognising such environmental credentials, through for example using the global benchmarking system of ‘The Green Globe’.

Volcano in Colombia erupts

2009-02-17T10:41:00.003Z

On Saturday 14th February at 7:10pm local time, Colombia’s Galeras volcano erupted. The government immediately issued a ‘red alert’ which resulted in the evacuation of around 7,000 local residents. The quick response ensured there were no fatalities or serious injuries.
The volcano became active again in 1989, with an eruption in 1993 resulting in the deaths of nine people, all of whom were near the volcano’s crater at the onset of the hot magma surge.

Fines For Naked Hikers

2009-02-17T10:39:00.003Z

A craze of naked hiking, especially popular among German tourists, has provoked offence in the small, conservative Swiss canton of Appenzell-Innerrhoden.
Last year, the local police arrested one man found hiking without his clothes on and later charged him with a public disorder offence.
The incidents of naked hiking have incited outrage in the local residents of Switzerland’s smallest community, where women only received the right to vote in 1990. The Swiss daily Tages-Anzeiger quoted the head of the canton police department as saying "We must protect our children from these immoral habits".

Rain Refreshes China

2009-02-10T13:38:00.002Z

Rain finally fell over the dry landscapes of China this week. According to Chinese officials, China has been experiencing one of the worst droughts for over 50 years.
Many regions in northern and central China have not seen rainfall for over 3 months, leaving over 4 million citizens facing a shortage of drinking water and millions of wildlife affected.
The dry-heat has also ignited much concern for the countries wheat-producing areas as, due to poor irrigation, many agricultural regions rely on rainfall.
Thus, in an attempt to encourage precipitation, last weekend Chinese soldiers fired cloud-seeding chemicals into the skies over the worst drought-striken areas.
Today's rains may have brought light refreshment, though more will have to follow in order to quench China's present thirst for water.

Israel Elections Today

2009-02-10T13:34:00.002Z

Despite bad weather, at 0700 local time today, the people of Israel began voting to decide upon a new government. The early election was called by Prime Minister Ehud Olmert who is stepping down. The Israeli proportional representation system enables the leader of the largest party in the Knesset to form a government, with the Likud leader, Binyamin Netanyahu predicted to return to power.

Australian BushFires

2009-02-10T13:25:00.004Z

Southern Australia continues to experience catastrophic devastation from the ferocious bush fires sweeping the land. The death toll in Victoria has today reached over 180 though is expected to rise as fire-fighters continue to uncover the charred ruins of more rural homesteads and communities, and, as the fires remain out of control.
The main fire in Victoria is thought to have so far destroyed over 750 homes, with fears for today focused on a fire in the wine region of the Yarra Valley.
The world has been watching in horror at the vast scale of destruction left by the weekend bushfires that have arisen within one of the hottest summers Australia has experienced for over 100 years.
As new strategies are being reviewed for how to control the infernos, Quantas Airlines have donated $100,000 to the 2009 Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund to support the people and communities affected. Others can donate directly to the appeal at the Quantas and Jetstar main websites.

New US Visa Rules

2009-01-15T15:15:00.002Z

Are you planning a trip to the US? Do you know about the new online US visa waiver requirement? If not, then read on.

On Monday (12 January), a new system came into force that requires travellers to the US fill out a form online and receive authorisation to travel from US border officials before stepping onto a plane.

The Visa Waiver Program consists of 34 countries including the UK, and enables qualifying citizens with a machine readable passport to visit the US for up to 90 days without applying for a visa.

The US is replacing the paper forms (that you fill on the plane) with ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). Please note that ESTA is a compulsory online travel permit and travellers must pre-register online at least 72 hours prior to travel to obtain an authorisation. Once obtained, visa waivers are valid for two years, or until your passport expires. Fail to do this, and you will not be allowed into the country. Period.

The official ESTA website is https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov, and all visa waiver applicants should submit their information through this site alone.

Easyjet - New Summer Routes

2009-01-15T15:12:00.003Z

Easyjet is launching nine new routes from UK regional airports for summer 2009.

There are new places to go cheaply as operations start from April this year. Where you can go this summer for a song:
Newcastle to Malta, from 2 April
Bristol to Corfu, from 22 May
Bristol to Bastia, from 24 May
Liverpool to Dubrovnik, from 2 June
Liverpool to Naples, from 1 June
Liverpool to Bordeaux, from 2 June
Manchester to Corfu, from 4 May
Manchester to Athens, from 1 Aug
Manchester to Bastia, from 9 Aug

Get ready to go.

Bristol: A Green City

2009-01-13T17:59:00.003Z

Bristol has recently been chosen as the only city in the UK to be shortlisted for the European Green Capital Award.

The European Green Capital Award was conceived to recognise the important role played by the local authorities in improving the environment. The idea was originally conceived at a meeting in Tallinn, Estonia on the initiative of the former City Mayor, Jüri Ratas.
Starting in 2010, one European city will be selected each year as the European Green Capital of the year. Of the 35 applicants, the evaluation panel has shortlisted eight cities, including Bristol, for the title as European Green Capital 2010 and 2011. The city was recently appointed by the UK government as Britain’s first ‘cycling city’.
Shortlisted cities are:
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Bristol, United Kingdom
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Freiburg, Germany
• Hamburg, Germany
• Münster, Germany
• Oslo, Norway
• Stockholm, Sweden

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Africa: Anglo-Zulu War 130th Anniversary

2009-01-13T17:58:00.001Z

In commemoration of the 130th anniversary of the Anglo-Zulu War this month Endumeni Tourism in Dundee, KwaZulu-Natal, has put together a special programme. The line-up begins with a parade in Dundee on January 17 when the 153-year old KwaZulu-Natal regiment, the Natal Carbineers, exercises its right to Freedom of Entry of Dundee. This will be followed on January 19 by a conference on the Anglo-Zulu War, which will feature aminent local and international historians as well as the commanding officers of the Natal Corbineers and the Natal Mounted Rifles.

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Africa: Bushman’s Secrets Revealed

2009-01-13T17:55:00.001Z

Bushman Kloof Reserve and Retreat will be presenting an archaeological event every month, starting March to June this year. Guests will discover the history of one of the world’s largest open air art galleries during the three-day ‘Art of Archaeology’ programme, with two of South Africa’s foremost archaeologists, Professor John Parkington of the University of Cape Town’s Archaeology Department and Bushmans Kloof resident curator, Siyakha Mguni, who will host excursions and lead informative talks about the San.

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China – Travel to Yunnan

2009-01-09T19:53:00.001Z

It doesn’t take a crystal ball to see there is enormous business interest in China, and that China is obviously trying very hard to redefine its place in the world market.

They say: “Yunnan is China’s It destination. Look forward to spirit-recharging sunsets along the famed Tiger Leaping Gorge trek; sunrises atop the Yuanyang rice terraces; back-alley meanders in the time-warp towns of Lijiang and Dali; and an ice-cold beer in Xishuangbanna after a jungle trek.”

The plan: the classic Yunnan triangular tour is out from the capital, Kunming, to explore Dali, Lijiang and Zhongdian - cobbled market towns connected by panoramic train and bus rides, and crowded with temples, t’ai chi and (in Zhongdian) Tibetan colour. If you’re feeling flush, Banyan Tree has opened hotels in both Lijiang (doubles from £264) and Zhongdian (from £242).

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Vietnam - Where to go in January

2009-01-09T19:11:00.004Z

During the winter months of November to April, the temperatures in North Vietnam average around 16 degree centigrade. The rest of the year is considered summer time with heavy rainfalls and occasional storms. However, it only rarely rains the whole day long and gets dry after rainfall as quickly as it comes.

If you are travelling to the central and southern parts of Vietnam, then the months of November and December are considered the best. However, the best time for a long tour from North to South Vietnam would be from January till April. So book your holidays now and save on bargains!

There is a new possibility to travel inter-countries between Vietnam and Cambodia via water way. The Victoria Group operates a speed boat of 10 seats from Phnom Penh to Chau Doc or vice versa. Upon request, this boat can transfer passengers from Chau Doc to Ho Chi Minh City with a stopover in Can Tho or same routing in reversed way.

Our seat-in-coach tours are enriched by the 5-day Sapa tour and the 4-day Mekong Delta extension with weekly departure, conveniently fit as pre and post tour options of the 7-day Vietnam Classic tour starting every Wednesday, with minimum 2 passengers.

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Oman: New Adventure Destination

2009-01-09T19:05:00.010Z

Did you know that 21 different species of whales and dolphins have been identified off the coast of Oman? And you can see 5 types of sea turtles of which Green Turtle and Loggerhead species are most common. It is a paradise for scuba divers and snorkelers but with over 400 species of birds even birdwatchers can have a field day. If you are still bored, well you can try finding an Arabian leopard.

This is a good time to see Oman, as it starts to pull the visitors in. Because of long- standing links with Britain, Oman has a conveniently Anglophile attitude: English is widely spoken, our plugs fit their sockets and the benign autocrat who rules the Sultanate of Oman - Sultan Qaboos - still thinks warmly of his days at Sandhurst. And our winter is the best time to see Oman, when the weather is pleasant.

The perfect way to see Oman: driving and camping. Make sure you are carrying the best of everything with you - especially water- and knowing exactly where you're going.

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Mumbai Hotels

2008-12-23T14:41:00.003Z

The iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai along with its Tower wing welcomed its guests again this Sunday. The reopening of the hotel took place 24 days after the terrorist attack on the city of Mumbai. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ratan N. Tata, Chairman of the Indian Hotels Company Ltd., said: "Today has been an incredibly moving day. The Taj has been reopened, after a massive concerted effort, in dedication to all of those who lost their lives in the attacks on Mumbai."

The re-opening of the hotel witnessed tremendous support for its celebrated 5 restaurants. Each of these received full bookings for the evening. The Trident portion of the Oberoi hotel complex also reopened on Sunday. However, the main luxury sections of the hotels are expected to open after a few months.
The Taj Hotel has launched a fund to support all the victims of the attacks, not just at The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, but also across the city of Mumbai.

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Flybe adds fourth Jersey route

2008-12-23T14:05:00.005Z

Flybe is launching flight from Humberside to Jersey with a lead-in fare from £59.99 one way including taxes and charges. The weekly flight will operate on Saturdays between May 2 and September 19.

Flybe already flies to Jersey from Dundee, Inverness, and Manston in Kent. All four services have been launched in partnership with Jersey-based C. I. Travel Group, which had previously operated the routes as exclusive charter flights. All routes will operate once a week, on Saturdays.

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Thai tourism

2008-12-18T10:07:00.000Z

Following the damaging Bangkok airport siege, Thailand tourism is promising a major investment to boost tourism back to the country. A tourism recovery plan has been outlined as opposition leader Abhisit Vejjajiva was elected as prime minister. Tourism chiefs hope the strategy will result in one million UK tourists visiting Thailand in 2009.

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Kenya’s Back on track

2008-12-18T10:02:00.003Z

The Kenyan tourism industry says tourist arrivals are starting to pick up as travellers are now becoming more confident to book the destination after the post-election crisis in the first three months of this year.

“We have received new enquiries and bookings are starting to come. The tourism started to pick up again in the last quarter of 2008 and we expect bookings to Kenya as normal in the year 2009.” Says Harish Kohli, CEO of AwimAway.com

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Brazil Rain-forest Rescue Plan

2008-12-18T09:57:00.004Z

More than a decade after Brazil said it would reduce Amazon destruction, it has now pledged to reduce clearing of the world’s largest rain forest to half. Over the past year Amazon deforestation rose 3.8% as forest-razing for agriculture accelerated with soaring beef and soya prices.

The announcement of the new plan coincides with the opening of a United Nations climate conference in Poznan, Poland, indicates that Brazil will reduce the destruction to an annual 2,260 square miles by 2018.

The destruction of the Amazon rain-forest makes Brazil one of the top emitters of greenhouse gases because trees release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere when they're cut down or burned.

Check for Central and South America Holidays at Adventure holidays - Adventure Travel Worldwide - AwimAway

Airline strike action

2008-12-17T19:05:00.000Z

TAP Portugal is warning passengers of a possible disruption this weekend due to industrial action.

The union representing cabin crew at TAP Portugal is calling for a one-day strike this Saturday (December 20) over a pay dispute.

The airline said this would result in severe delays and/or flight cancellations to the airline’s operations across the system.

It is strongly advising customers to consider other travel dates.

Customers with existing and ticketed bookings for Saturday who wish to change may do so free of charge.

Date changes are subject to availability on passenger’s chosen flights.

Alternately, passengers wishing to cancel their travel plans can opt for a full refund by contacting either their agent or TAP.

“TAP senior management is doing all possible to avoid work stoppage by working with the trade union authorities. They are optimistic that the issues between the two parties can be resolved without the need for a strike,” said a spokesman for the airline.
See the TAP website www.flytap.com/UK/en or call TAP Portugal at 0845 601 0932.
Check for your holidays at Adventure holidays - Adventure Travel Worldwide - AwimAway

Eco-Friendly at Lalibela Game Reserve

2008-12-17T18:41:00.006Z

Location: South Africa’s Eastern Cape

Mark’s Camp has been built with minimum impact on the surrounding vegetation. A team of people have eradicated alien vegetation. Land and vegetation rehabilitation is high on the list of priorities with old farmland restored to its original state.

Tree Tops considers water and electricity conservation a priority. The staff at Tree Tops practise conserving these natural resources without compromising quality. Tree found naturally in the area have been planted on raised platforms to minimise sand impact.

Lentaba Lodge recycles old Sneezeweed fence posts from farm fences found on the property before it became a game reserve. The posts are used for walkway railings, balconies and verandas in the lodge. Other natural materials and stones found on the property have also been used.

Check for Africa Holidays at Adventure holidays - Adventure Travel Worldwide - AwimAway

Mexico City - Happiness Initiatives

2008-12-17T18:34:00.001Z

If you have been to Mexico City recently, you may have already noticed the change, the eviction of sidewalk vendors from around the central plaza, known as the Zocalo. Two years ago the Mexico City Mayor, Marcelo Ebrard launched a number of unusual programs, such as installing a free ice-skating rink in the capital's main plaza and throwing free coming-out parties for poor 15-year-old girls. There are more than 350 public works projects under way, including a new subway line, bus lanes, and an overhaul of the overwhelmed sewage system. The old or unlicensed taxis will go off the streets and new ones will take its place.

Now, there is a “Happiness Initiative” for a better quality of life. The Mayor plans to give out free erectile-dysfunction pills to men over 70. As many as 100,000, which could cost more than $4 million. Anyone travelling to Mexico City?

Check for Central and South America Holiday at Adventure holidays - Adventure Travel Worldwide - AwimAway

Kyoto Goals

2008-12-17T13:37:00.003Z

A U.N report has given mixed reviews on reducing greenhouse-gas emissions. The findings released in November indicated that 19 industrialised nations are falling behind on their emissions goals for 2012 under the Kyoto Protocol. The level of emission has grown 2.3% since 2000. However, overall emissions have dropped 5% below 1990 levels. There are 16 nations which are on track including the United Kingdom. The list is given below:

Bulgaria

Czech Republic

Estonia

France

Greece

Hungary

Latvia

Lithuania

Monaco

Poland

Romania

Russia Fed.

Slovakia

Sweden

Ukraine

United Kingdom

To travel to these countries for your Adventure Holidays, click here.

Thailand: sustainable tourism

2008-12-15T17:20:00.004Z

Community Based Tourism Institute
The Community Based Tourism Institute provides support to strengthen the capacity of Thai communities to manage tourism sustainably. It facilitates Community based tourism research and development initiatives which strengthen local communities and support sustainable natural resource management.

Mekong Tourism
The Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), located in Bangkok, Thailand, co-ordinates sustainable pro-poor tourism development projects in the Mekong in line with the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, and promotes the Mekong region as a single travel and tourism destination.

North Andaman Tsunami Relief
Thailand is an interesting destination. There is something-for-everyone in this destination that if it didn’t exist, the industry would have invented it. It satisfies the demands of every traveller, from budget, luxury to sex tourism. But, it’s much more than that!

Behind these mass media images, lies its original culture and a society that is cultured and responsible to the environment. The growing sustainable tourism industry is already winning accolades galore.

There are non profit and non religious organizations which has implemented over 120 projects in various. All projects have focused on long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability and creating realistic economic opportunities through training and marketing. The North Andaman Tsunami Relief is a network of friends, dedicated volunteers, and donations.

Luxury Operators
It is not only the small community organisations that are leading the way but they are joined by the most luxurious resorts like the Six Senses and Banyantree, who are the most ethical (and successful) luxury ecolodge and spa operators in the world.

As they say, Thailand is a destination for mass tourism but it also knows its ways towards sustainable tourism.

Woman smuggles monkey

2008-12-15T17:05:00.002Z

A Washington woman successfully managed to smuggle a monkey hidden under her blouse out of Thailand only to be caught on arrival in the United States.
CNN reports that Gypsy Lawson 28, aided by her mother Fran Ogren, 56, was carrying a sedated rhesus monkey and pretending to be pregnant. Authorities in Los Angeles, California, rescued the monkey from under Lawson’s loose fitting blouse and convicted the two on smuggling charges.

Rhesus Macaque monkeys, native to Asia, are most commonly used in medical research.
Though cute they do not make for desirable pets as they grow to become quite aggressive animals and are known to carry disease and virus harmful to human beings. This Rhesus Macaque monkey in question has since been placed into a center for abandoned primates.

Sustainable Travel: Algae latest aircraft biofuel source

2008-12-15T16:37:00.001Z

Continental Airlines has announce plans for the first biofuel-powered demonstration flight; another step towards reducing carbon emissions and supporting Sustainable Travel. The test flight of a U.S. commercial airliner will involve operating one engine on the special biofuel blend and conducting both normal and non-normal procedures.

The demonstration flight, (with no passengers), will be conducted in Houston on Jan. 7, 2009 and powered by a special fuel blend including components derived from algae and Jatropha plants -- sustainable, second-generation fuel sources that don't impact food crops or water resources, and don't contribute to deforestation.

World Travel Awards

2008-12-15T16:28:00.001Z

The World Travel Awards, often called the Oscars of the travel industry were announced on 02 Dec 09. Amongst the winners were 11 Green operators.

Green winners were:
1. World's Leading Conservation Company Shamwari Game Reserve, South Africa
2. World's Leading Eco-friendly Airport Singapore Changi Airport
3. World's Leading Eco-Lodge KumbukRiver, Sri Lanka
4. World's Leading Green Cruise Line Sea Cloud Cruises
5. World's Leading Green Destination Costa Rica
6. World's Leading Green Hotel Chateau Mcely, Czech Republic
7. World's Leading Green Resort AquaCity Poprad, Slovakia
8. World's Leading Green Tour Operator Tribes Travel, United Kingdom
9. World's Leading Green Transport Solution Company Europcar
10. World's Leading Responsible Tourism Scheme Quest, England
11. World's Leading Sustainable Tourism Scheme Green Airport Initiative

RUNWAY CLOSED AT LONDON GATWICK

2008-12-11T14:10:00.001Z

Due to ice on the runway, Gatwick Airport was shut this morning meaning delays for more than sixty flights. All passengers were told to continue their check in as normal even though many of their flights were either diverted to other airports or cancelled. For those passengers whose flights were delayed there was a long wait whilst efforts were being made to remove the ice. The runways were not expected to be open until ten thirty this morning but most passengers experienced delays for at least four hours. A spokesperson for London Gatwick explained that the extreme weather conditions were not forecast.

Technology-savvy retirees book more holidays online

2008-12-11T12:37:00.002Z

The internet is proving to be an essential means for booking holidays...especially for the older generations. According to the results of a recent study published by an online travel agency, of the 142 retired people interviewed, 88 booked their holidays via the internet. Furthermore, the research concluded that over 100 of these OAPs were self-taught internet users for the specific aim of purchasing low-cost holidays online.

The research presents further statistics that reflect the reasoning to why people entering their twilight years, and indeed many travellers in general, may prefer to use the internet for booking their holidays, rather than venturing out onto the high street- it is easier, quicker, cheaper and can also be fun. One can research destinations more efficiently and compare and contrast bargains and deals in a comprehensive, hassle-free fashion.

Reinforcing this notion, Harish Kohli from AwimAway.com stated “We are an online operator and almost 90% of our enquiries come through our website”

Travel Updates – Thailand

2008-12-11T07:56:00.003Z

Our ground operator in Thailand reports that business is as usual and both major Bangkok airports are open. Normal flight schedules have resumed for Thai Airways and most other international Airlines. Inbound flights are experiencing no problems at Suvarnabhumi International Airport and connecting inbound flights from both Bangkok Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang Airports are running freely.

Outbound flights are still experiencing a few issues however. There are still large numbers of people suffering from delayed flights out of the country. This has meant outbound flights have mainly been over-subscribed. This situation should ease as early as next week when it is expected that most outbound clients will have exited the country. Delayed tourists are staying in Thailand at the Thai government's expense for their hotel and subsistence.

Our representative also reports that the weather in Thailand is 29 degrees Celsius with clear skies. Life is going on as normal. “Looking out of my office window, I can see palm and fruit trees, Tuk-Tuks the hustle and bustle of Bangkok and the BTS (overland sky train) zooming past.”

Save this Christmas

2008-12-10T14:18:00.007Z

Prepare yourself to save this Christmas, so that you can enjoy the summer 2009 holiday. Look for good bargains that do not compromise quality. Search and thou shall find.

According to Expedia.co.uk, about 18% plan to spend Christmas with their in-laws in to save money for their summer break. Research shows that about 20% travellers will save between £200 and £300. That’s interesting.

Book early and save: We have hundreds of amazing at www.awimaway.com that you can book now and save.

XL gone into liquidation

2008-09-22T09:24:00.002+01:00

As you may know that XL, the UK's third largest tour operator, has gone into liquidation. XL customers who booked through a travel agent or paid with a credit card are protected and will get refunds, but those who paid by debit card will not.

For our AwimAway customers who are concerned, please note that we are ATOL-protected and that all holidays booked through AwimAway are guaranteed.

Weekend in South Africa - Where to go?

2008-09-05T02:54:00.002+01:00

BOTSWANA
Southern Africa is becoming a new long-weekend destination for the British. There's no time difference, the flights are overnight (both ways), and you waste no precious daylight hours travelling.

The good news is that the aeroplanes depart around 8pm, so dinner; sleeping and breakfast are at the right time in the right order. The pleasure in travelling or sleeping overnight on a plane to South Africa however is that you wake-up to a different and dramatic landscape; fresh air and smiling warm faces and if you are lucky, some snarling animals as well.

BEFORE YOU GO
The best way to travel on your weekend is to pack light and travel easy. The out-going flight is on Thursday, so carry a bag, small enough to smuggle in and out of your office:

Hand luggage can include your binoculars, camera and travel books you'll need on safari
Arrive at the airport well before time to have a glass of champagne and some smoked salmon at the Caviar House.
Travel in the loose chinos or combat trousers you'll wear for game drives, plus the baggy cotton or fleece jumper
Take a pure down baby pillow: it squashes up small, you can cosy up to it on the plane and it's invaluable in the camps where pillows are hard.

JOHANNESBURG - MAUN
Your wake-up call is a few thousand meters above Johannesburg. You have the choice to eat on the aircraft or at the airport café that is decent and above the excellent book- shop. Buy Sasol's illustrated guide to the birds of southern Africa and the Sasol mammal book. This is the old Africa hand's library; your guide will be dead impressed.

From Johannesburg, there's a comfortable connection to Maun in Botswana. The two hour flight allows another opportunity for a nap or a quick introductory lesson from your book. At Botswana, we change into another plane for the last hop to adventure. The time to go to Botswana is in our summer when the Okavango Delta swells with water from Angola.

OKAVANGO DELTA
There is mystery and romance of the Okavango's waters. Much of the fun in viewing wildlife here is by a boat. Some prefer the big boat but the sound of silence is so potent that I prefer the traditional makoro. As we glide slowly above water, Hippos pop up on each side. We paddled to a far island where birds chatter volubly in the reeds. On ground, there is a herd of buffalo munching the water meadows and there are tracks of lion and elephant.

I spent my afternoon watching a fluffy, magnificent prince among raptors – the rarest, Pel’s fishing owl. He stood there contemplating us as I looked at him through my binoculars and hurriedly reading notes in my bird book. In the sunset, that was one of the most spectacular, we could see a lion pride feeding on a zebra.

En route to the tent we met the mamba, rampant, while I was withering along behind the camp manager. But when someone freezes in the bush, you shut up and freeze. The mamba dropped from its striking position and slithered off. I saw the swish of the most scary tail in Africa. Quite as bracing as my pre-lunch shower.

MOREMI WILDLIFE RESERVE
The next day, I flew to Khwai River Lodge in the Moremi Wildlife Reserve that has a drier, harsher environment. Moremi lies in the centre of the Okavango Delta. It is undoubtedly one of the world's most beautiful wilderness areas. Moremi is a place of lily-covered wetlands, grass plains and forests, where even at the busiest time of year you're likely to be the only spectators at even the most dramatic animal sighting.

The lion were at Khwai. Actually, the whole drama of life and death was at Khwai. Wild dogs are back here — a rare treat — and a pack drove a baby water buck into the river. The baby made piteous juvenile water-buck noises, its mother was frantic, the wild dog hovered at the river's edge. And the inevitable happened: the arrow-like ripple in the river, the black little eyes (nature's periscopes), the snap, the squeal, the thrashing hooves, the closing of the waters and Mr Crocodile had served himself dinner.

The next morning, while on a drive with our guide, we breakfasted with the lion. We were watching birth of a water buck in the reeds by the river’s edge when our guide heard the roar of a lion in the distance. Just as lechwe began its precarious journey in the wild, we drove into the wilderness.

The pride sat at their table without knife and fork but tidily eating their breakfast, a zebra. A few feet away and in our Land Rover, we opened our packed sandwiches. The lionesses regarded the vehicles with a lack of interest bordering on contempt; were one to get out, however, the time span between touching the ground and becoming a second course would be minimal.

CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
Our next flight hop was to Chobe, often described as one of, if not the best, wildlife-viewing area in Africa today. Savuti boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife left on the African continent. Animals are present during all seasons, and at certain times of the year their numbers can be staggering. Its uniqueness in the abundance of wildlife and the true African nature of the region, offers a safari experience of a lifetime.The most remarkable feature of the Chobe National Park is its huge concentration of elephants. But it's not just the elephants that make this special park worth visiting. It's so wild, a leopard made a kill in the Car park just before I. arrived and blood stains from a wild dog kill were still visible nearby.

Savuti Channel, a strange waterway that seems to have a mind of its own, bisects the park. The channel was dry for one hundred years, then flooded abruptly in the 1950s and remained flooded till the 1980s, when shiftings of the subterranean tectonic plates caused it to dry up again.The journey home is a sleepy crash- out, arriving back in good time in the morning. Jet lag? Ah, you don’t need to worry about that. There's nothing but buzz, excitement and a heightened sense of living; about going so far and seeing so much.

adventure and activity holidays

Thrill of caving - Where to enjoy?

2008-09-04T19:00:00.003+01:00

“BY THE RULE OF THUMB, A MOUNTAINEER IS AN ADVENTURER” said Roger, a caving Instructor. I knew what he was getting at, but I wasn’t the least interested in going in to dark and dank underground places. I like the openness of the wide open valleys, beautiful vistas, fresh air and independence. Caving to me is claustrophobic but when you are upgraded to an adventurer, it is hard to pull out.

Roger, a fit-looking forty-something was going to be our instructor and leader the next day. We chatted for an hour or so during which he tried to explain the similarities between climbing and caving. “Oh, you climb up and then climb down, while we climb down and eventually have to climb up. It is no different than what you do” he said trying to make it look simple and easy. I couldn't decide whether to feel encouraged or not.

MENDIP UNDERGROUND
Unknown to him, I had been reading Mendip Underground, a caver's guide written by local experts Tony Jarrat and Dave Irwin. There was no mistaking what some of the technical terms foreshadowed: a low grovel, a muddy wallow, a wet flat-out crawl and a. desperate squeeze did not need translation.

The names of various features of the Mendip caving systems seemed similarly mixed in portent. The Ruby and Crystal Chambers, Princess Grotto and Harem Passage sounded appealing. But the Vengeance Passage, Agony Crawl and Sludge Pit Hole didn’t sound too good.

GOING DOWN
As Roger unlocked the door to the entrance to GB Cave the next morning, I started to think of Something Nasty In The Attic and Abandon Hope. Dressed in waterproof suits, helmets and lamps, I gazed down a squarish hole into darkness. Holding myself, I followed Roger down the hole, picking my steps on the metal ladder by the light of my lamp. It was dark and damp.

The cave was 3ft wide and straightened up with chambers out on each side and overhead. I could hear the scrape and shuffle of Jack bringing up the rear, a reassuring sound. We came to a place where the passage roof dropped sharply and the sides, narrowed in. My helmet lamp showed a short tunnel through the rock, roughly two feet square and maybe 5ft long.

The soles of Roger’s rubber boots gleamed momentarily in the opening, and then he was through with an athletic wriggle. I got down on my belly, shoved my arms out ahead, and wormed forward. It was impossible to squeeze through. The rock around me felt as if it was in-contact with every part of my body except my face, and that was laid ear-down in a puddle of mud.

“Turn on your side," came Roger's calm advice, "and just pull yourself forward." I did as he said but nothing happened. I was stuck. “Go back and try again” he said calmly again and again it was the same. After learning a few tricks lying down on the muddy floor, I slowly slithered out on the far side, as greasy as a new-born baby. Later, flicking through descriptions of desperate squeezes and right-angle corkscrews in Mendip Underground, I found that the little funnel I had passed through did not even rate a mention.

Then came a couple of 15ft descents down slippery looking walls of rock. That would be easy, I thought. With some experience in climbing and guidance from Roger about the cracks and hand-holds, I found I could spider my way down the vertical rock faces at the cost of a barked knuckle or two. It wasn't until the following morning that muscles I never even knew I possessed, began to complain about being woken from their 50-year slumber.

As we walked, crawled and crouched our way south, a couple of hundred feet below the grazing fields of Mendip, my lamp picked out gems of underground architecture: smooth curtains of cream-coloured flowstone coating the walls, tiny pale needles of stalactites dripping from the roof, helectite in hunches like coral or frosted cauliflower heads. "Calcite," said Roger. "You never get tired of the different ways it forms. Always different, always beautiful."

BEAUTY BELOW GROUND LEVEL
Turning around a corner, I found myself suddenly gobsmacked. What I saw was a breathtaking sight. GB's main chamber opened up in a vast cavern, nearly 100ft from floor to roof. A rock bridge sprang out across a ravine. Long stalactites hung among wavy curtains of calcite and haphazardly sinuating worms of helectite. Nearer at hand were smooth, round knobs of stalagmites, hobbling the chamber floor.

When caving first took off as a serious science-cum-sport in the 19th century, cavers would snap off calcite formations and knock down stalactites for their rock gardens. Finders could be keepers in that carelessly innocent climate of opinion. Nowadays the emphasis is on responsible caving: enjoy it, and leave it for others to enjoy. "Don't touch the stalagmites," Roger warned when he saw me stretch out a hand to the irresistibly rounded shapes. "We try not to spoil the decorations."

I knew well enough the kind of pleasure I had got out of my few hours underground: the sense of achievement in overcoming squeezes and rock climbs, the beauty of the calcite formations twinkling in lamplight; the feeling of being somewhere truly "other", yet part of a familiar landscape.

I call myself an adventurer but that is an old term that has long lost its true meaning. The real adventures are the cavers and what they do is real exploration.

adventure and activity holidays

How To Prepare For An Adventure Holiday?

2008-09-03T06:10:00.002+01:00

“Work hard, enjoy hard” is the common dictum amongst the adventurers. It is indeed a follow-up of what they say in the army, “the more you sweat in peace the less you bleed in war”. The truth is that there's no alternative to training, be it army, sports or adventure.

Different activities and sports make specific demands on your body, so it pays to know which muscles you are going to need and how to make them stronger long before you leave home. Adventure holidays don't come cheap, and you won't get the most out of your trip if you spend half of it suffering from aching thighs or sore shoulders.

TREKKING
The best preparation is to head for the hills. Go for long weekend walks in Snowdonia, the Lakes or the Scottish Highlands. Gradually increase your pace and take routes that require rambling. Initially, you may feel comfortable to start from a B&B but follow this up with a camping routine. Remember, getting ready from within a tent does require more effort.

In the Himalayas, trekking is often at varied gradient, sometimes over moraine and at times over high altitude. And the pattern of the day will be different, too. You will be up at dawn and on your way before Sun.

Most adventure travel companies have their treks graded from mild, that involves about four to six hours' walking a day, through moderate with the occasional steep path to expedition grade. Different tour companies use different terms, so read the small print to know what you are letting yourself in for.

Contacts
Ramblers Association organises regular walks all over the country. They also produce a useful handbook and accommodation guide for the UK.

Essential gear

Comfortable walking boots that you have worn already. I recommend leather over the fabric-panelled, which, in my experience, don't stay waterproof once the boot is worn in.
Sun glasses or shades to protect the eyes.
Clothing in three layers – thermals, a fleece and a breathable waterproof jacket and trousers.
Mattress or Thermarest inflatable mattress and four-season, down-filled sleeping bag with a full-length zip.

CLIMBING
There are two types of mountain climbing: technical climbing with ropes over rocks, or climbing during trekking over snow and ice at high altitudes. For the Himalayas, you will need to prepare for the effects of high altitude. Most Himalayan climbers now prefer running to get their lungs intake more oxygen and stabilise their pulse beat below their normal rate. You will also need to prepare your upper body, so pull-ups are a good idea. Long distance walking with a rucksack will ready your muscles.

Contacts
British Mountaineering Council for more information about local clubs. Check at sports centres with a climbing wall about tuition. Scotland and Wales are the best places in the UK to practise winter climbing

Essential gear

Most operators will send a list of gear provided by them and what you must take with you.
Walking boots that you have worn already.
Clothing in three layers – full thermal layer, a good quality fleece and a gortex waterproof jacket and trousers.

CANOEING
Canoeing can be of different types. It is important to consider the type of trip you are doing and in what vessel. Are you going on a long-distance river trip or dealing with technical white water? And will you be in a kayak or a canoe?

For a kayak, that requires sitting with legs forward in a closed-in boat with a double-ended paddle, you'll need flexible hamstrings to keep sitting comfortably.

For a canoe, where you’ll be kneeling in an open boat with a single-ended paddle, you’ll need a strong lower back and stomach because you are twisting to paddle on either side of the boat.

Few gyms have machines to simulate paddling, but any aerobic-based exercise, such as rowing or running, is good for endurance.

Contacts
The British Canoeing Union for information about local canoeing clubs and courses in the UK.

Essential gear

Sandals but not trainers, as you may have difficulty getting them into a kayak, particularly if you have large feet.
Neoprene socks, if it is cold.
A swimsuit or trunks or quick-dry shorts and a lightweight thermal top.
Eye protection in the form of shades, a peaked cap or both - with a strap to stop them falling off.
Insect repellent — water attracts insects.

DIVING
The first preparation is to take the "Experience Scuba" module of the British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) Ocean Diver course. Cost £20 and operates in swimming pools all over the country. BSAC also gives away free lessons during National Try Dive Week generally during September. During these sessions, which last for one or two hours, you'll learn the underwater signs, how to share air with your "buddy" and practise swimming in full gear.

It's the lower body — abdominal and hip muscles, the quads and hamstrings — you need to work out, and don't forget to keep ankles flexible for more productive fin movements.

Most adventurers are put off diving because they are not strong swimmers. BSAC says; you don't have to be a strong swimmer, it’s all about buoyancy

Contacts
Call the British Sub-Aqua Club for details of local clubs and courses.

Essential gear

A wet suit.
A well-fitting mask is important. Do the suck test: you should be able to “hold” the mask to your face, without using the strap, by just breathing in through your nose.
Wet-suit bootees with a rubber sole should be bought rather than hired. If you have very small or very big feet, buy your own fins, too.

HORSE RIDING
Horse riding is fun but if you haven’t been riding enough, you can stiffen your thigh muscles on the very first day of your riding holiday. It will help if you work those inner thighs before you go. A riding-holiday specialist, recommends "doing the splits". Stand with your legs as wide apart as is comfortable and hold the stretch for as long as possible to strengthen the thigh muscles, which bear the brunt of the effort on your horse. Exercises that strengthen the back will also be helpful.

It's important that you are honest about the amount of riding experience you have so that organisers can match your mount to your abilities. In addition, I suggest that beginners should prefer a ranch-based holiday that allows you to return to your comforts, such as baths and massage, every night.

Contacts
The British Horse Society for a list of approved riding schools and companies running UK riding holidays

Essential gear

Riding boots – for holidays you can take the short riding boots or the new riding trainers unless you have your classic long leather boots.
Non-Specialists can take all-terrain boots, which are lightweight, compact and have some ankle support; but check that the sole is not so rugged that it might get caught in the stirrups.
Trousers – Jodhpurs are still the trousers of choice or Jeans. Novices can wear jogging pants.
Take your own riding gloves. Hard hats are provided by operators but take you own if you have one.

Explorer, adventurer and mountaineer Harish Kohli is one of the most widely travelled Himalayan experts. He has visited almost every valley in the Himalaya and stood atop hundreds of its mountain passes. Share his vast knowledge and experience in the field of adventure holidays and activity travel.

10 Tips for holiday divers

2008-09-02T18:24:00.002+01:00

On a diving holiday to Australia in January 1998, two Americans, Tom and Eileen Lonergan, joined a group in Port Douglas, near Cairns, for a day's diving on the Great Barrier Reef, 40 miles off shore. In the evening when the boat returned, unnoticed by either the crew or any of their fellow divers, the Lonergans were not on board.

Two days passed when the manager of the hotel where they were staying noticed their absence and raised the alarm. By the time the search was finally launched, it was almost certain that the Lonergans were dead.

No one knows what happened to them, whether they eventually drowned or were eaten by sharks. Either way, their end is too horrible to Imagine. A few months later, one of diver's waterproof notepad was found in a mangrove swamp. In the faded writing that was still readable was a horrifying message. “To anyone who can help us… we have been abandoned… please rescue us before we die.”

All adventure sports carry risks, and diving is no exception. When complications arise in diving, they can quickly become potentially fatal with an alarming speed. Most of these are due to human error but can be avoided if precautions are taken before hand. Practice and experience do help but the key to safety is in the preparation. Here are ten tips to remember.

1. Training and Practice
Learning to dive is a bit like learning to drive. You arc not a competent driver when you have passed your test – you need to broaden your experience before you have gained true competence. You can begin by joining the British Sub Aqua Club (BSAC) that has branches throughout the UK and in several overseas locations. At the BSAC courses, diving skills are taught progressively so that each new experience is built upon step by step.

2. Select Qualified Operator
When diving on holiday, you have to be dependent on your operator. If you are going to trust your life on their equipment and experience then it makes sense that you spend some time in selecting the best. Divers should ensure that the operator is affiliated to one of the main international diving associations, such as the BSAC, PADI or CMAS (World Underwater Federation). If possible, talk to the operator and get to know the depth of his local knowledge.

3. Undertake a Refresher Course
Take a refresher course before you go. Most accidents happen with divers who go on a diving holiday without preparing enough mentally, physically, equipment-wise or experience-wise. PADI recommends that all divers complete a refresher course if they have not dived for six months or longer."

4. Be True With Your Diving Record
Maintain you diving record. Before going on a diving holiday, check your record. Go on a refresher course if you are not confident and inform the operator how long it is since you last dived. Some dive operators would look at logbooks to establish your experience.

5. Equipment
Use the correct equipment because to put into practice what you have been taught in theory is crucial – and more difficult than it may seem. There have been instances when a single item of the equipment like a diving knife can make a difference between life and death. Avoid cheap equipment.

6. Buddy System
Divers depend for their safety on their fellow divers. This is why the "buddy system" – always diving in pairs – is taught by all the main agencies including the BSAC and PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors).

7. Make Friends with People Onboard
Incidents similar to Lonergan have occurred not for the first time. People have been forgotten in the sea. If you are a holiday diver and no one on the trip knows you, make agreement with another member of the party to watch out for each other. The trip operator should be doing this, but arranging your own back-up plan is a sensible precaution.

8. Remember Your Lessons
Most accidents are caused by human error, when divers panic and forget what they have been taught. The most serious transgressions include diving solo, lack of buoyancy control, decompression mistakes and inexperience with equipment.

9. Intermittent Holiday Diving
Accidents occur more frequently to those who dive only from time to time. A diver with the right paperwork is technically qualified, however long it is since his last dive. But it takes time to reacclimatise and techniques that used to be second nature require relearning. Practise makes the man perfect.

10. Are You Physically Fit?
Before going on a dive, ask yourself, if you are physically fit? Small instances like a bad cold can be dangerous. The pressure and infection on the eardrum can disturb the sensitive mechanism of the inner ear for life.

All divers must accept responsibility for themselves. And that means never diving when there is any doubt as to their own competence or the competence of the operator.

Adventure Travel Holidays

Wecome from Harish of Awimaway

2008-09-01T05:49:00.002+01:00

Hi,
Up till now, Harish has rejected pleas to write the story of his best Himalayan adventure saying, “I want to keep the secrets of the Himalaya”. Now at last, after 25 years, Harish breaks his silence and agrees to tell the story in his own words. This blog is about his many adventures and favourite expedition – the Trans Himalayan Expedition, which made history in the world of mountain exploration.

About the Author
Harish took tiny steps at the age of 8, to climb the Himalayas on a religious trip. This trip left a lasting impression on his ethos. His quest for a life of adventure led to a lifetime achievement Award for Adventure and his name in the Limca Book of Records, India's equivalent to the Guinness Book of World Records.

Little did Harish realise then, that his deep passion for adventure would take him across four continents leading trekking, mountaineering, skiing, riding and river guiding adventures and wildlife safaris to India, Spain, Bolivia, Peru, Tanzania, Namibia, Madagascar, Guatemala and Belize among others. He has climbed high on Mt Everest, crossed the Norwegian Arctic on skis and run across Iceland. He is the author of "Across the Frozen Himalaya", the story of his treacherous ski journey across the Himalaya.

Harish will write in this blog about his adventures and favourite expedition – the Trans Himalayan Expedition – which made history in the world of mountain exploration.

More about Harish:
Explorer, adventurer and mountaineer Harish Kohli is one of the most widely travelled Himalayan experts. He has visited almost every valley in the Himalaya and stood atop hundreds of its mountain passes. Out of his vast experience and passion for adventure came the idea of finding a ski route across the Himalaya. This became a 2,000 km marathon ski traverse in near-Arctic conditions and a journey of exploration into unknown regions. He wrote the story in his book ‘Across the Frozen Himalaya’ and the famous explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, OBE, wrote the foreword.

Harish Kohli is the founder of the Asian Geographic Trust. For his contribution to exploration and adventure, he has received the Vishist Seva Medal from the President of India and the National Adventure Award. His two record-breaking expeditions are in the Limca Book of Records (India’s Guinness Book of Records).

As a young man, Harish lived and worked in Australia for a time, skiing in the fashionable resort of Thredbo and scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef. In recent years Harish has led several expeditions to different parts of the world, spending over a month in countries on the four continents. He has explored the Amazon jungles in Bolivia, taken the Machu Picchu trail in Peru, followed the Maya Trail in Guatemala and Belize, swum with sharks and stingrays in Caye Caulker, off Belize, taken a desert safari across Namibia, climbed Mt Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, and followed humpback whales off the coast of Madagascar. He has ski-sailed alone across Lappland, northern Norway, ran across Iceland to raise funds for cancer research and climbed to 8,000m on Mt Everest.

One of his first adventures was also his best. In 1981-82 he conceived and led the first traverse of the Himalaya, covering 8,000 km on foot in 475 days, a pioneering journey of adventure and discovery. Much emulated since by other travellers, the expedition has been praised as the “the best in Himalayan history” and the legendary mountaineer Reinhold Messner said of it, “What I do vertically, you do horizontally”.