And while it takes a lot to beat a walking safari in Tanzania, white water rafting in Iceland or shark cage diving in South Africa, there are plenty of other ways to experience a country.

Here are 10 of the more unusual adventure activities you can take part in around the globe.  

1. Explore Saigon by Vespa

For those with a need for speed, exploring Saigon in the evening on the back of a Vespa is a must! You’ll be driven around by a local guide who knows the city like the back of his hand, stopping at a seafood restaurant and pancake shop to satisfy rumbling tums before heading to  a local music venue for an injection of local culture. This is a really fun way of getting to know one of Vietnam’s most exhilarating cities and with your guide on hand to lead the way, it’s a really authentic experience.

2. Swim in Antarctic waters

As crazy as it sounds, this is possible! Deception Island, just off the Antarctic Peninsula, is home to thermal waters thanks to the fact it is a caldera, and while the waters aren’t exactly warm enough to be compared to say, a tepid bath, they are warm enough to take a dip – and who else can say they have swam in the Antarctic?!  

3. Take a biplane safari

Step back in time and observe safari wildlife from the air in a traditional biplane. There is only one place you can do this in East Africa – the Lewa Wilderness Conservancy in Kenya, so it’s a really unique experience and one that you are unlikely to forget in a while! The pilot, Will Craig, has over 5000 hours flying experience and takes great delight in pointing out the area’s local landmarks amidst the dramatic and beautiful landscape.

Photo provided by Audley Travel

4. Canoeing and camping on the Zambezi

An adventurer’s dream, you spend three days canoeing down the Zambezi, setting up camp each night on one of the islands in the river. There is literally no way of getting any closer to the wildlife in the area as you share the river with hippos, crocodiles and elephants, who all make regular appearances. Although  the pace isn’t too strenuous, you undertake approximately 4 to 6 hours paddling daily, stopping once in the morning and once in the afternoon for a break.  

5. Combine adventure and wine in Argentina

What a wonderful combination! If you consider yourself a foodie and an adventurer you’ll love this activity, which begins at Brazo Tristeza in the Argentine Lake District, where you can admire the stunning panorama before descending on a rope followed by a 40m rappel to the base. At the base adults enjoy wine tasting and a light lunch before an afternoon of water-based activities – don’t forget your swimwear!

Flickr image by Gollmar

6. Swim with whale sharks

If you’re in Western Australia between March and early July, don’t miss the opportunity to snorkel with whale sharks in the Ningaloo Reef where these magnificent creatures congregate, timing their annual visits with the coral spawning. At an average of 32ft long, this is the largest species of fish in the world and jumping into the water with them may seem a little loopy, but really they are gentle giants and a wonder to behold.

Photo provided by Audley Travel

7. Heli-biking

New Zealand is king when it comes to adventure activities, so it seems natural only that this is one of the places you can take part in heli-biking. As the name probably suggests, heli-biking is where participants are flown by helicopter to the beginning of scenic but remote bike trails before hopping onto a mountain bike and making their way to the end. This activity is normally guided and one of the best places to do it is in the Kaimanawa Ranges in the North Island.  

Flickr image by vertphoto

8. Climb Sugar Loaf Mountain

Without a doubt, Sugar Loaf Mountain is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most famous landmarks, so any chance to experience it whilst avoiding the crowds is a welcome opportunity. Instead of taking the cable car, stroll along a beautiful shoreline path before heading onto a trail which includes some sections of scrambling. This is followed by a challenging, 25m rock climb to reach the top, after which you will be rewarded with stunning views that Sugar Loaf Mountain is so famous for.

Photo provided by Audley Travel

9. Go in search of dinosaurs

Canada’s very own “Wild West”, the Canadian Badlands is an area rich in fossils, including dinosaur bones, so grab your fedora and your walking boots and embark on your own Jurassic adventure. There are a number of tours that you can join in the area, including the Dinosaur Badlands Tour, which takes around two hours to complete. Stop at the Royal Tyrrell Museum which houses one of the world’s largest dinosaur collections before exploring Horsethief Canyon and Hoodoo geological formations. The tour also includes crossing Red Deer River and the historical Rosedale Suspension Bridge, originally opened for the nearby coal mining community.

Photo provided by Audley Travel

10. Glacier landing and dog sledding

One of these would be exciting enough on its own, but combining the two is a real treat and the Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska offers the opportunity to take part in one such adventure. This exhilarating activity includes a scenic flight above some of Alaska’s most picturesque landscapes followed by 25 minutes dog mushing, during which you can choose to drive or just relax in the sled.  

This is a sponsored post from Katy Pannell, Online Travel Editor at Audley Travel, an award-winning tour operator that specialises in tailor-made trips and small group tours to over 80 countries around the world.

The post 10 Unusual Adventure Activities appeared first on Wild Junket.

But even for travel addicts like us, there are just days when we want to ditch our backpacks and throw in the white towel. As much as we hate to say this – sometimes, we really hate traveling. Here’s why:

1. Delayed flights and missed connections

We love flying almost as much as we love traveling – especially on long-haul flights when we can cozy up under a blanket and treat ourselves to a movie marathon. But when flights get delayed, it almost completely ruins the excitement of flying. Waiting for the next flight wouldn’t be a problem if we weren’t missing my connecting flight chocking up extra expenses and wasting valuable time.

2. Jetlags

We finally get to this exotic destination about hours of flying and – bam! – we’re hit with this sudden wave of sleepiness, at two in the afternoon. And after days of adjusting to the time difference, it’s already time to head home.

3. Touts

“Come, look at my shop!” You see and hear them in every major tourist destination – from Cairo to Bangkok and Morocco. Unfortunately they’re like a plague that you just can’t get rid of. Steer clear of the tourist-cluttered markets and attractions – those are their favorite hangouts!

4. Too many travelers

Picture Rome without the throngs of camera-toting tourists, or Bangkok without the backpacking hippies with the signature baggy pants — the world we live is now overrun with travelers. According to (WTMO), over a billion people traveled in the year 2012. Perhaps that’s part of the reason why I tend to seek out unconventional destinations – like Madagascar instead of Mauritius, Albania instead of Italy, and North Korea instead of South Korea.

5. Visa applications

As a Singaporean, I rarely need to travel with a visa (thanks to the good ties between Singapore and other countries). But there are still some countries where this kind of formality is still necessary, and it is not always easy to get past it. Long processing periods or a lack of embassy or consulate of the country on your current location can hinder your plans and stop you from visiting.

6. Dorm rooms

Days of meeting fellow travelers, cooking together, swapping stories and partying in the hostel were fun and we still love hostel vibes. But there just comes a time in life when you get too old for dorm rooms. During a recent hostel stay in Ushuaia, Argentina, I had a bunkmate who snored louder than a hippo, another one who couldn’t stop bragging about his travels, and one who was obviously suffering from smelly feet. As much as I can enjoy some company during my travels, there are just some moments when I need some extra privacy and comfort.

7. Sleeping at airports

There comes a time in every frequent traveler’s life when one has to spend a few hours stranded in some airport, far away from your final destination. If you ever had to spend the night in an airport, you must agree with me that it’s almost sadistic the way some of them are laid out. No seats anywhere to be found; and when you finally find one, someone has purposely added separations between each seat so that no normal person can lay down and have some rest. Not cool people, not cool.

8. Feeling dirty

On my six-month trip in South America, we probably spent 20 days or more without showering. Days spent hiking in the Amazon Rainforest and on safari in the Uyuni all involved tons of sweat, plenty of mud, and no showers. By the end of the trip, my hair was developing into a mess of dreadlocks and my skin was covered with layers of dirt – yikes!

9. Guidebooks

We’re all guilty of that. Don’t get me wrong: I’ve got a whole collection of guidebooks – I’ve even co-authored one before, but there is one thing about guidebooks that is not doing destinations (and the travel industry in general) any favor. When everyone has the same guidebook and everyone follows it like a bible, where is the fun of traveling?

10. No public toilets

Ever found yourself with a severe stomachache only to realize that there’s not a single public toilet in sight? It’s a common problem regardless of where you go. Through the years, we’ve grown accustomed to carrying a roll of toilet paper everywhere we go and being able to ‘go’ whether we’re in the mountains or the savannas.

Do you hate traveling at times? Why? Share with us in the comments field below.

The post 10 Things We Hate About Traveling appeared first on Wild Junket.

Visit the Tunnel of Love – Kleven, Ukraine

If you’re looking for something sweet and incredibly simple, try visiting the Tunnel of Love in Ukraine; it almost looks like a scene from a fairytale, especially with its vibrant foliage and arching branches that form around a railroad track to create a secret hideaway. The only thing you should probably know is that track is still used three times a day by a train that carries logs to a nearby factory. Besides that, if you enjoy simplicity in both the location and activity, this stroll would be perfect for your Valentine’s Day.

Flickr photo by Reza Ahmeds 

Stay in the Ice Hotel – Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Want to do something unique and completely unconventional? Take a trip to the Swedish Lapland and check in to the ICEHOTEL – the world’s first hotel made out completely out of ice and snow. Even from photos, it’s easy for anyone to see the amazing artistry that goes into designing the rooms and the structure itself. February is still one of the colder months, so it would be a perfect time to book a room with the ICEHOTEL (before the ice melts away and must be rebuilt anew after the summer). *Read about our visit.

Hot Air Ballooning Amongst Fairy Chimneys – Cappadocia, Turkey

For a taste of adventure with a spectacular view, you might want to try hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey.  One of the most popular destinations for hot air ballooning, Cappadocia has breathtaking views from above as well as lovely weather conditions. As other balloons rise into the air in the early dawn hours, you may not be the only one celebrating a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s day but it’ll definitely be a day to remember. If love makes you feel like you’re on a cloud, let’s just say this experience will help you achieve the feeling of floating.

Kick Back in Loreto – Baja California, Mexico

If you’re looking for a little bit of a warmer destination, try the quiet beaches of Loreto, Mexico. Unlike many popular cities in Mexico, Loreto veers away from any kind of mass tourism; you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty of Loreto while relaxing, and slipping away into empty remote corners. Because it’s so secluded, you’ll be able to enjoy quality time with your partner while admiring anything from the sunrise, to the sunset, to the stars.

Flickr photo by writer elicasue

See the Northern Lights – Abisko, Sweden

Those with a soft spot for natural beauty will probably dream of seeing the Northern Lights in Abisko, Sweden. Though the name is often heard of and the image that comes into someone’s mind is universal, how many people can actually say they’ve seen the Northern Lights? The unparalleled beauty of the lights (though maybe paralleled by your loved one) would make it a special day to remember for years to come, but it would be even more special if you had a special someone by your side.

Fall for Taj Mahal – Agra, India

To marvel at majestic architecture, the place to visit for Valentine’s Day might be Agra, India to see the Taj Mahal. It’s long been known as a symbol of love since the emperor constructed it to express his love for his wife who passed away. The Taj Mahal incorporates a various array of styles of architecture and is a gorgeous masterpiece. This, too, is one of the many examples that love is eternal.

Where do you plan on spending Valentine’s Day? Anywhere unique you’d like to share?

The post Off-the-Beaten-Path Ideas for Valentine’s Day appeared first on Wild Junket.

Cuba

Cuba has always been on our radar, not just for its unique flair and culture, but also for its tinge of authenticity. Having been closed to the outside world for decades, Cuba continues to be one of the few remaining destinations that’s relatively undisturbed by external influences. Now that the embargo is about to be lifted by the US government, we’re worried about the possible impact of tourism. In Havana, we hope to wander through its cobble-stoned paths and along the malécon, feast on Cuban cuisine in the paladares and interact with the locals by staying in casas particulares. Then we’ll head to the beaches in Trinidad, and head inland to Camagüey, and the Afro-Cuba city of Santiago de Cuba.

Flickr photo by VisualStandpoint

Brazil

We’ve long dreamt of visiting Brazil during the Carnival to join in the world’s biggest street party and explore the country’s wilderness at the same time. On our four-month trip around South America in 2008, we had left Brazil out of the itinerary as we knew such a big and diverse country needed more time to explore just on its own. It’s about time we head back to the continent we love so much. From Rio de Janeiro, we hope to meander along the Brazilian coastline, exploring colonial towns like Paraty, venturing into the Amazon and going kitesurfing on Jericoacoara with Sunvil Traveller. But most of all, we want to venture into the wet, swampy forests of El Pantanal, one of the few places in the world where jaguar sightings are possible. Besides jaguars, Pantanal is also home to a myriad of wildlife like tapirs, otters and howler monkeys.

Flickr photo by Tambako

Trans-Mongolian Train and Mongolia

At the beginning of 2012, we had originally planned to go overland from Asia back to Europe and experience the Trans-Siberian journey, a voyage that’s been on our wish list for many years. We didn’t end up taking the train last year due to time and budget constraints; but this year, we really want to make it happen. Our current Ice Run train journey has gotten us hooked on train travel and we know we’re going to enjoy crossing from Europe to Asia by train. Starting from St Petersburg, we hope to hop on the Trans-Mongolian train, zip through Siberia, see some sights in the region, and end up in Mongolia where we’ll spend time exploring the steppes and getting to know the nomadic locals. Real Russia is the most reliable company for Trans-Mongolian travel and we plan to travel with them on this journey.

Flickr photo by scott.presly

Central Asia

Since we’ll be in Asia at the end of the Trans-Mongolian journey, we want to make use of the opportunity to venture into Central Asia which we’ve read so much about. Places like Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Kazakstan interest us for their mix of cultures and history – in this little known region, we want to visit their majestic mosques, meet locals who are best known for their hospitality, and tread the Silk Road just like the ancient traders used to. We haven’t made very concrete plans but we’re thinking of first heading to Xinjiang, China, then finding our way towards Almaty (Kazakstan), Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan), Tashkent (Uzbekistan) and then head straight back to Moscow, Russia.

Flickr photo by Adam_Jones

West Africa

Having been to several countries in Africa, we’ve long been drawn to West Africa for its troubled history and intriguing Voodoo culture. This part of the world can be dangerous especially when traveling on your own, so we’ve been researching to find the best way to explore the region. G Adventures recently launched a West Africa cruise that sails along the entire coast from South Africa, through Congo, Benin, Sierra Leone, and all the way to Dakar. The voyage is on board the MS Expedition, the same ship that I sailed with to Antarctica and Arctic. The trips for 2013 are already fully booked, but I’m hoping to join the cruise in another year’s time.

Flickr photo by babasteve

Are these places on your wish list too? Where do you plan to travel to in 2013?

The post Our Travel Wishlist for 2013 appeared first on Wild Junket.

Looking back, I can’t believe that I actually traveled to all seven continents in just one year (Alberto six since he didn’t join me on the Antarctica trip). This year, we’ve had some of the most incredible experiences of our lifetimes – from visiting the Hermit Kingdom of North Korea to watching the Big Five in Zimbabwe and walking with penguins in Antarctica.  Thanks to you, we’ve managed to continue doing what we love.

Here’s a look back at 2012 and all the places that have made the year such a spectacular one.

Philippines

At the beginning of the year, we set off to the Philippines right after releasing inaugural issue of WildJunket Magazine to kick start our location independent lifestyle in Asia. We chose Southeast Asia to be the base of our nomadic lifestyle for the low cost of living and ease of travel. It was great to be back in the tropics, enjoying slow travel and let our hair down. We went on a food tour in Manila, swam with whale sharks in Cebu, traced tarsiers in Bohol and spent some time relaxing and scuba-diving in Dumaguete. It was an action-packed month but somehow we left feeling that there’s still so much to do and see.

Vietnam

After our first visit to Ho Chi Minh four years ago, we wanted to explore more of this intriguing country and that was exactly what we set out to do on this trip to Vietnam. We started where we left off in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon), before traveling north by train all the way to its border with China. The train journey itself was chocked full of fun encounters  as we met locals who were incredibly friendly and hospitable. From the beautiful lantern town of Hoi An, to the beaches of Na Trang, and the rice terraces of Sapa, we discovered a country full of surprises.

Thailand

We had originally planned to spend a few months in Thailand, as we needed somewhere to settle down and work on our next magazine issue. Our first stop was Chiangmai, where we met some old friends and chilled out over street food and cocktails. We then headed down to Bangkok by train where we celebrated Songkran on the streets and had a wild time. To bury our heads in work, we chose the laid back island of Koh Lanta as our base for the month. But luck wasn’t on our side as our trip coincided with the monsoon season and weather on the island was terrible. Not long after, we fell out of love with Thailand. I guess we just never connected to the country in a way others have.

Myanmar

Myanmar had been under our radar for a very long time – and it definitely did not disappoint. After the intense month of working in Thailand, it was refreshing to let our hair down and completely soak up the calm and spiritual undercurrents of Myanmar. From the shimmering Shwedagon Paya in Yangon to the stupa-studded landscapes of Bagan and the poetic water world of Inle Lake, Myanmar is a country so pristine, raw and untouched, it’s hard to believe that a country like that exists in today’s world. It continues to be my favorite part of Southeast Asia. Perhaps it’s because of years of isolation from the outside world, perhaps it’s the deep-rooted Burmese culture, Myanmar remains pure and untainted – for now.

China

Being such a big country with so much to see, China has always appealed to us especially since it’s my ancestral land. Our first visit was four years ago and we had only managed to see Beijing and Shenzhen. This time, with the help of China Odyssey Tours we set out to explore as much of the country as we possibly could over one month. We cruised down the Li River, we farmed on the rice fields with locals, visited the world’s tallest Buddha statue in Leshan, admired the thousands of terracota soldiers of Xi’an and explored the legendary Mount Emei – all of which were experiences that would stay with us for a long time. China remains an enigma to me, as it swings from its ancient, traditional past to the new, hip modern era.

North Korea

North Korea was definitely the highlight of our jaunt around Asia. It’s a country that has always been projected in a negative light (with names like the ‘Axis of Evil’), and we were curious to see how life really was like in the Hermit Kingdom. We spent five days making our way around the capital of Pyongyang to the ancient city of Kaesong and the DMZ (demilitarized) border. Although we barely scraped the surface of the country, we took a peek into this isolated nation and experienced for ourselves life there We were definitely surprised by what we saw — people were curious about us, locals sang and danced in the park and there were signs of humanity everywhere. (We answered some of your curiosities here).

South Africa

As part of the iAmpassador #LoveCapeTown program, we started our Africa trip with a bang in Cape Town. I visited last year and absolutely loved it – it was great to be back, this time in winter and with Alberto and good friends. We did a bike ride through a township, tested our cooking skills preparing some Cape Malay cuisine, drove to the southern tip of the African continent and swam with great white sharks (again!). Our trip also coincided with the Getaway Travel Blog Conference, and I spoke about travel writing. It was my first time on stage and those who were there would have seen how nervous I was, going up to the stage with a glass of wine. Thank god I survived it for the second leg of our trip through South Africa, which included a road trip from Johannesburg to Sabi Sands Private Reserve where we spent a couple of days chasing the Big Five at Cheetah Plains.

Botswana

From Johannesburg, we flew straight out to Zambia where our tri-border crossing began. To get to our luxury river cruise, the Zambezi Queen, we had to cross three borders in one day: from Zambia, through Namibia to Botswana. But it was well worth it. Everyday aboard the safari cruise, we awoke to views of elephants and hippos grazing by the Chobe River banks, cruised alongside lonesome boatmen, and watched sunset over the savannas. Game watching was in the form of 4×4 safaris or river safaris – and we spotted hundreds of elephants, crocodiles, impalas, giraffes, and hundreds of bird species. It was an incredible experience and we couldn’t have asked for a better setting.

 Zimbabwe

Our journey continued on to the Victoria Falls Private Reserve in Zimbabwe, for more wildlife watching. During our time at the beautiful Stanley & Livingstone, we were rewarded with impressive sightings from herds of zebras grazing on the grasslands, to kudus galloping amidst the bush, and vultures eyeing the savanna from the top of the Acacia trees. Out of the six black rhinos that call this reserve home, we spotted four of them, all inches away from our jeep.  Of course we had to visit Victoria Falls, not just to witness this amazing creation of mother nature, but also to get our adrenaline fix. Alberto took this video when he did the Gorge Swing, a 72-meter free fall followed by a swing over the Zambezi river.

Mozambique

After weeks of intensive travel in Africa, we were ready to have some downtime and relax in Crusoe-esque style. And on Bazaruto Island, we did just that. At just 30 km from mainland Mozambique, it’s just a short hop away from the town of Vilanculos, yet it can’t be further away from the chaos of Africa. Inhabited by only 3,500 people, the island remains a stronghold of tradition for fishermen in the area and continues to steer clear of the tourist trail. During our stay at Indigo Bay, we felt like we’d been cast away on a far-flung island, somewhere remote and unexplored, but we were surprised to find creature comforts always within our reach. The flight to Bazaruto itself was well worth the trip. 

Florida

After almost 10 years, we finally went back to the place where we met and fell in love. Miami is somewhere special for us and it was great to return after being away for so long. We partied on South Beach and took time off to relax under the sun. This time, we even got to fly over Miami Beach and see it from the skies. But there was more to Florida than Miami, so we explored all over the state – cruising the 10,000 islands of the Everglades, kayaked through mangrove swamps in the Keys and discovered the gorgeous, secret island of Dry Tortugas. It was also our first time experiencing a hurricane – thankfully Hurricane Isaac didn’t do any harm and we couldn’t have asked for better weather after that.

California

One of the reasons for our trip to the States was to visit my sister who lives in Fresno, California. My parents flew over from Singapore as well, and we had an excellent time reuniting over long lunches and day trips around the area. We only see one another once a year, so it was great to be hanging out with my family again. A highlight for us was our road trip to Sequoia National Park, where we actually spotted a black bear crossing the road. It was such a close encounter we couldn’t believe our eyes.

Palau, Micronesia

After our summer break, Alberto and I headed on separate trips for the first time this year. I flew over to the Pacific to pursue a life-long dream of swimming with jellyfish in Palau. Millions of translucent white jellyfish danced and swayed all around me, their short springy tentacles bobbing melodically in a synchronized rhythm. It must have been one of the most magical places I’ve ever been. In the week that I spent exploring Palau, we kayaked the Rock Islands, went scuba-diving with sharks and turtles, before going back on land and exploring the historical side of Palau, and eventually getting down and dirty on a wild ATV ride. I still have plenty of stories on Palau left untold – so stay tuned.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

While I was out and about in Palau, Alberto zipped over to Riviera Maya in Mexico for a press trip with several other bloggers. The Riviera Maya DMO set up an action-packed itinerary, including a Mayan jungle expedition in the heart of a sub-tropical rainforest where they entered the Sac-Actun cenote system, the world longest underground river. They also plunged underwater in the Nohoch Nah Chiich cavern, ziplined across the jungle foliage and rappelled into the beautiful Yaxmuul cenote. Another highlight was exploring Rio Secreto, an extensive cenote system discovered only in 2007.

Australia

After a few weeks of rest in Spain, we embarked on probably the most memorable trip of the year. Australia has always been one of our favorite countries, packed with so much diversity and raw nature. We started off the road trip in the Northern Territory with visits to the Alice Springs Desert Park and Reptile Center, before hopping on a hot air balloon to see Alice Springs from above. Our favorite part of the trip was joining Wayoutback Desert Safaris on a 3-day camping safari through Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Sunrise at Uluru was one of the most spectacular sights we’ve ever seen.

Driving through the Red Center had always been on our bucket list and we did it in style, on a spacious and comfortable Britz campervan. We drove to Adelaide, South Australia, before flying over to Tasmania, an island 150 miles away from mainland Australia – so similar yet different in every sense of the word. For the last part of our trip, we drove along the coast of Queensland up to Heron Island, which lies right on the Great Barrier Reef. As avid scuba divers, Heron Island was a dream come true.

Antarctica

To top the year’s list of amazing experiences, I joined G Adventures on the Antarctica Classic in Depth voyage aboard the MS Expedition cruise. Like my Arctic expedition in 2011, this voyage blew me away with mind-blowing landscapes and spectacular wildlife. Towering glaciers and jagged peaks flanked the photogenic Lemaire Channel, while mammoth icebergs littered the cold seas. We wandered around thousands of penguins that roamed the white, snow-covered slopes and tiptoed our way around fat blobberish elephant seals lazing by the shore. Everyday, Antarctica brought us one surprise after another. As harsh and aloof as it is, Antarctica is like no where else in the world. I yearn to go back and until then, my memories will have to do for now.

 Lapland

As the end of the year has crept up upon us, we have set off on a train journey with Eurail around Northern Europe in search of a winter wonderland. We aptly named this the Ice Run as this journey is aimed at challenging ourselves to the extreme cold and seeing remote parts of Europe. From Rovaniemi in the Finnish Lapland, we zipped over to Abisko, Sweden on the Arctic Circle train before arriving in Narvik, Norway. Along the way, we had tons of fun in the snow – going dog-sledding, ice-fishing, snow-mobiling, and hunting for the Northern Lights.

 What about you? What exotic places have you visited this year? Where do you wish to go on 2013? 

The post 2012: Our Year in Photos appeared first on Wild Junket.

1 Brazil

As the host country for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Brazil is set to rock the tourism industry in the next few years. In 2012, Brazil has already seen a 7.8% increase in tourism (according to wttc.org), and it is predicted to increase even more in 2013 as the World Cup hype builds up. As a prelude, the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup will take place in six Brazilian cities this coming June. Home to long, wild stretches of beaches, isolated islands and the legendary Amazon Rainforest, Brazil packs in wilderness, culture and charm. The best time to visit is during the world famous Carnaval, celebrated this year from February 9 to 12. Although prices are exorbitant this time of the year, the atmosphere and spirit are undeniable.

Flickr photo by Digo_Souza

2 Malawi

With a political shift in 2012, Malawi is now ruled by a forward-thinking female president, Joyce Banda, and the future for the country is shining brighter than ever. Over recent years, Malawi’s economy has also stabilized substantially and there’s no better to visit the East African country. For some reason, the neighboring countries Tanzania, Kenya and Zambia have long been a part of the well-trodden tourist trail; but Malawi has always stayed off the radar. It’s about time for Africa’s best kept secret to shine;  join underwater safaris to view Lake Malawi’s diverse aquatic life, or go on big game safaris in Liwonde National Park or watch 200 species of orchids bloom in Nyika National Park – you’re in for a surprise!

  Flickr photo by Michiel Van Balen

3 Papua New Guinea

2012 was a dramatic year for Papua New Guinea as it plunged into chaos for months when a political feud between its two rival prime ministers. In June, Peter O’Neill, the current prime minister, finally announced plans for a coalition government. Now that its political situation has stabilized, we predict that hordes of visitors will once again pour into this raw and undiscovered country. In fact, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall recently visited the country as part of their Diamond Jubilee Tour. As a unique far-flung archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, Papua New Guinea is made up of over 600 islands and 800 indigenous languages, creating a spectacular cultural mosaic. Adventure travel has really taken off in Papua New Guinea, with the Kokoda trek taking center stage and the opportunity to witness the flamboyant and extraordinary sing-sing on offer. 

Flickr photo by ThePaperBoy

4 Myanmar/Burma

With the decade-long tourism boycott lifted in 2010, the National League of Democracy in Myanmar (NLD) is finally encouraging independent travel to their country. Despite the lift of the boycott, the State Department of U.S. still warns travelers that the authorities “have often prohibited entry or exit at most land border crossings, unless the traveler is part of a package-tour group that has received prior permission from the Burmese authorities.” Having made our list in 2012, Myanmar is making an appearance again on our 2013 list as government reforms now take shape to open up the country. We visited in 2012 and loved it: from biking through the mystical temples of Bagan, to calming boat rides on the Inle Lake, and getting to know the people of Myanmar, Myanmar offers the rare opportunity to travel through time.

5 Colombia

With the World Games 2013 taking place in Cali in next summer, Colombia will be under the tourist limelight as travelers flock to its shores to explore its offerings. Home to colonial cities, coffee-plant valleys, and a gorgeous coast, Colombia has always drawn budget travelers to its shores; but these days, it is predicted to attract the attention of more extreme travelers who are keen to explore its undiscovered regions and seek out adventures such as rappelling and rainforest hikes. Cali, capital of Valle del Cauca state, is a historical city that dates back to over 470 years of age. Nature in Cali is a source of pride as majestic, leafy trees and beautiful gardens throughout the city attest to why the city received the honor of being given the title of Green Township in Colombia.

Flickr photo by Sandra Vallaure

6 Madagascar

Madagascar’s presidential elections are finally scheduled for 2013 (having been repeatedly delayed) – which could mean a step towards greater democracy. Although locals remain skeptical, they are more than eager to welcome tourists into their country. But for visitors, the time to go is now before Madagascar’s logging problems wipe out its unique endemic wildlife. We visited in 2011, and it remains a hot favorite at WildJunket. As the world’s fourth biggest island, Madagascar packs in an overwhelming species of flora and fauna, otherworldly landscapes, and animals that are unlike no other. Catch sunset over baobab trees, track down lemurs in jungles, climb the Bemaraha stone forest or float on a dugout canoe – Madagascar promises only the extraordinary.

7 Antarctica

Recreational travel is growing in Antarctica, and it is expected to increase further next year as more and more media coverage (let’s take BBC’s Frozen Planet for example) has drawn the attention of curious travelers. According to International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), the number of visitors to Antarctica who landed on the continent has increased from 12,248 in year 2000 to now 22,122 in 2012. Increase in tourism has raised concerns over our impact on the fragile environment, resulting in possible limitations of tourism in the future — so get there before it’s too late. This seventh continent truly captures the meaning of the word “adventure” – with nature’s erratic ways, each visit is unique. Kayak through ice, photograph glaciers and icebergs, and observe penguins, elephant seals, and minke whales – there is nowhere else like this in the world. (Look through our photos here)

Where are you planning to go in 2013? Any plans to visit the countries above?

The post 7 Up-and-Coming Adventure Travel Destinations for 2013 appeared first on Wild Junket.

Travel Packs

Luggage is perhaps one of the most obvious essentials for traveling, and if you’ve been thinking of purchasing luggage for someone, you may want to consider what kind of traveling they’re most interested in. Are they most likely to book a week at a luxury hotel, or are they planning to go backpacking in Europe? Their travel personality, as well as your budget, will help you narrow down your choices and choose the perfect gift for your favorite travel junkie.

1. REI Classic Duffle Bag

Perfect for the gift-giver on a budget and a traveler always on the go, the REI Classic Duffle Bag (Medium) comes at $34.50 and in four different colors. This is great for a short getaway, a weekend trip, and even camping. The bag’s nylon material is highly water resistant and very tough, sustaining up to 44L of volume. It’s often been rated as durable, easy to transport, and lightweight—so it’s difficult to go wrong with this one.

2. Osprey Waypoint 85

For a world traveler, the Osprey Waypoint travel backpack is a sturdy and reliable option that almost carries like a backcountry backpack, and yet is comfortable enough to carry on the road. With This backpack is perfect for the intense backpacker, and can be customized to fit different body types. It comes in green and black, for both women and men’s fit. The backpack can be found for about $279 at Osprey’s online partner sites, Moosejaw and backcountry.com.

3. Leather Messenger World Map Bag

This is a fun one — for the stylish and hip traveler, the Leather Messenger World Map Bag is great for casual travel in Europe or Japan. Many travelers would be drawn to the map print, but it isn’t too overwhelming because of the brown leather. It’s a great way to keep a part of who you are in what you wear or carry. Perfect for your favorite female traveler, this bag is great to just throw in your essentials and a few maps, and can be found at $78.

Electronics

Electronics have become a large part of how the world functions and stays connected. With technological advancement, WiFi and internet are increasingly easily accessible all around the world. These electronics don’t just get you connected, but they also provide a compact and convenient form of entertainment.

4. Kindle Fire HD

The Kindle is known for being a reader more than anything else, but as technology becomes more advanced, the Kindle Fire HD lets you play games, watch movies and TV, and plays music. You can also Skype with it! Because of its size, it is easy to travel with, especially if you’re going without your laptop. The Kindle Fire HD ranges from $199 (16 GB) to $249 (32 GB).

5. iPad Mini

The iPad has been a popular product on the market for a while now, and its easy to see why. But the recently released iPad Mini, a bit of a cross between an iPhone and the former (and larger) iPad, is an even better travel companion. The iPad Mini ranges from $329 and upwards to $659, depending on how much GB you want, and whether you want a cellular data network attached to it. You can connect to the internet, play games, listen to music, nearly anything you could do with your laptop—except in the palm of your hand.

6. Bose Quiet Comfort Noise Canceling Headphones

If you know someone who enjoys music and watching movies, and utilizes their frequent flyer miles, the Bose quiet comfort noise canceling headphones could be the perfect fit (not to mention comfortable). Planes can be noisy, and being able to watch a movie or listen to music in peace can be a luxury. Though they are $299, they could be an investment for someone who nearly lives on an airplane.

7. Ceptics International All-in-One Travel Plug Adapter

Frequent world travelers know that each country has their own level of voltage, and making sure you have the right adapter for each country can be easy to forget about, especially in the midst of the exciting travel hype. The Ceptics international all-in-One travel plug adapter, though practical, is essential for anyone who uses electronics while traveling. It is ideal for iPad, iPhone, and cell phone charging and functions in over 150 countries. If you’re on a small budget, this can be the perfect gift to get, because it can still be appreciated—it can be found on Amazon for $12.99

Home Decor

Though travel and the places they go may be a big part of your friend or family member’s lives, there’s no place like home to wind down, relax, and recharge. If traveling is a huge part of who they are, why not help them incorporate it into their home lifestyle?

8. Vinyl Wall Decals

A world map is a perfect reminder of where you’ve been and where you’re going, as well as where you want to go.  Vinyl wall decals are a great way to spice up a plain wall with the continents of the world, and they peel off fairly easily. Wall decals come in all shapes and sizes, so the price varies from as little as $30 to $200.  You can find quite a good selection on Etsy.com.

Miscellaneous

9.“Holders”

By holders, I mean anything from a travel-related iPhone case (about $35 or less), a small, compact wallet (about $30 or less) for minimizing the weight they need to carry, or a passport cover (about $15 or less). These can most likely be found at a store nearby, though to narrow down your search to travel-related items, the Internet is always the easiest and the fastest. Etsy is again, great for more unique items.

10. Organization

As many females would know, bags are cute, and there’s some of us that can’t get enough of them. To make traveling a little bit more fun, you could get your favorite female traveler a new makeup bag with a pretty print, or other decently sized bags for other types of organization. Jewelry organizers are also great for those that like to bring their rings, bracelets, and necklaces with them. These range from about $10 to $25, more or less, and Amazon has a varied selection.

11. Luggage Tags

No matter how small they can be, luggage tags are a huge help for people who don’t have the best luck with getting their luggage back. Luggage tags can be changed in and out, so maybe you might consider getting a new luggage tag, even if your friend or family member has one. Luggage tags come in a variety of all shapes and sizes, so it might be exciting to get a new one, with a new look. These range from about $6 to $20, give or take a few dollars.

12. Luggage Weigher

Nowadays with the weight limit on luggage, most people would rather do without the extra fee. If you know someone who does mind the extra fee, and if they don’t already have one, a luggage weigher is perfect. It’s small and easy to carry, and they don’t need to hunt down a scale in the hotel lobby just to make sure they aren’t surprised at the airport. This luggage weigher is found on Amazon for $19.95, but you can find others on Amazon as well.

13. Travel Journals

Even though modern technology has most of us blogging and writing online, some might appreciate sitting down by the pool or beach with a pen and paper. Travel journals are perfect for those that prefer handwriting, and the classic look of personalized text. Depending on what kind of journal you want to get, they can cost as little as $5 to $30. You can find travel journals (or any kind of journal) at nearly every store, but if you don’t find any you like while at your local store, online is again, one of the best places for a well-rounded selection.

The post 13 Christmas Gift Ideas for Travelers appeared first on Wild Junket.

Watching the Northern Lights in Sweden

A large chunk of Sweden lies in the “auroral oval” – a zone where atmospheric gases collide with solar particles, creating the natural light show of the aurora borealis. Head away from city lights to the Swedish Lapland on a chilly, clear night for a chance to see purple, red, or green swathes of light dance across the sky. Watch the Northern Lights from the Aurora Sky Station’s lookout tower in Abisko National Park or the world’s first ice hotel in Jukkasjarvi. Nellie and Alberto were just there last week and saw some amazing Northern Lights display in Abisko!

Snowshoeing in Norway

Sprawled across Norway are large expanses of untouched snow, offering beautiful landscapes to be trekked across. You can easily snowshoe cross-country for a chance to glimpse the minke whale off the Norwegian coast or perhaps a sea eagle, whose population is at its highest in Narvik. Sail through its fjords on a nature safari cruise or take your snowshoeing on a vertical trek up the plentiful mountains for a spectacular view of frozen Norwegian lakes and plateaus.

Rally driving in Finland

Finland is home to some of the world’s best rally drivers, so if you’d like to pick up the sport, sign up for a short course with one of the many rally driving schools in Finland. Most of them are open year-round and they cater to newcomers and professionals. Interested in a specific car? They can arrange it for you. Shift into high gear this winter and try your hand at a race course.

Flickr photo by Jussi Mononen

Winter swimming in Russia

Ever fancy a New Year’s Eve polar dip? There’s no better place to dip your toe in the water – literally – than in Russia, where winter swimming is a popular thrill. If you’d rather ring in the New Year at a party than in ice-cold water, don’t worry: on January 19th, Russians celebrate the Orthodox holiday of the Epiphany by cutting holes into ice-covered rivers and ponds to plunge into water that’s -36 degrees Celsius.

Flickr photo by Yuri Timofeyev

Canyon jumping in Switzerland

Interlaken is a Swiss town that sits between two lakes and takes full advantage of winter for fun activities. It offers up Snowpenair, a music event; winter-proof Segway rides; and fantastic snowboarding and skiing. Even better? Interlaken is one of the few places in the world where you can bungee through a narrow glacial canyon, which some describe as a bigger thrill than skydiving itself.

Flickr photo by Alan Light

Ice climbing in Italy

Cogne Valley in Northern Italy is world-renowned for its ice climbing, and has climbs for both the beginners and experts out there. Scaling your way up a frozen waterfall with an axe is not for the fainthearted – but if you’re brave enough to try, Cogne Valley is easily the best place to do it.

Snow-holing in Scotland

Scottish winters deliver enough snow to give you a true winter hike up a mountain – but even better, they provide enough deep snow to create your very own snow-hole. Picture an upside-down igloo and you’ve got a snow-hole, which can be cozier than an igloo or a tent. Experts now teach people this survival technique as an adventurous way to spend the night on a mountain – but unless you’ve been trained in the skills, make sure to take an expert with you.

Flickr photo by Tretherras News

Which of these winter activities have you tried? Can you recommend any other fun activities?

The post 7 Adventurous Activities to do in Winter appeared first on Wild Junket.

1. You can’t stop planning your next travel destination – even when your boss might walk by your desk and catch you skiving.

2. You have mastered how to pack your life into a backpack.

3. You find yourself converting prices into different currencies.

4. You think potable tap water and fully-functioning toilets are great novelties.

5. Your suitcase is never fully unpacked.

6. The majority of your paycheck goes towards funding your next trip.

7. Home is more of a pit stop than a permanent destination.

8. Your bucket list consists mainly of places to go rather than things to do.

9. You can pack your bags in five minutes flat.

10. You can swear in several languages.

11. Having no travel plans makes you antsy.

12. Your daily routine includes checking travel websites and blogs.

13. You have learned to sleep pretty much anywhere – on a plane, in a car, on a train…

14. Being jetlagged has become the norm for you.

15. You’ve figured out which airports are smooth sailing and which to avoid.

16. You plan your life around your upcoming trips.

17. Your friends say you could put a down payment on a house with the money you spend on traveling, but you can’t figure out why anyone would want a house in the first place.

18. You’ve learned how to brew coffee in at least five different ways (one which may or may not include a sock).

19. Sprinting to catch trains and airplanes has left you fit enough to run a marathon.

20. You’ve gone skinnydipping in all five oceans.

If you can relate to the signs listed above, chances are that you’ve got a veritable travel addiction. In that case, hurry up and pack your bags before your family can slow you down with an intervention!

Which signs can you relate to? Are there any others that deserve to be added to the list?

The post 20 Signs That You’re Addicted to Traveling appeared first on Wild Junket.

Here’s a list of 10 of the best whitewater rafting spots. Suit up and join us on this wet and wild ride.

1 Zambezi River (Zimbabwe)

White water rafting on the Zambezi River is something every adventure-lover should experience. Enjoying the spectacular African scenery and the warm sunny weather, while bobbing around at the base of Victoria Falls, is definitely the highlight of the trip. You can top off your rafting experience with camping on beautiful white beaches and wildlife viewing that this region is famous for.

Flickr photo by christophercjensen

2 Colorado River, Grand Canyon

Many visitors claim that this is one of the worlds’ best trips. The area has a lot to offer, such as 226 miles of rafting, hiking paths up the canyon and to ancient Indian ruins, the view of the Grand Canyon, beautiful camping sites on spectacular beaches and the amazing Colorado River.

Flickr photo by Al_HikesAZ

3 Costa Rica

Costa Rica is rated to be one of the best white water rafting spots in the world. The rivers range from Class II to Class V rapids, and have something to offer for everyone, from families to adventure junkies. For those who enjoy adrenaline filled holidays, Costa Rica, with its natural exotic beauty and amazing wildlife is the ideal holiday spot.  The Rios Pacuare, Reventazón, Sarapiqui and Corobici are some of the best places to ride in Costa Rica.

Flickr photo by jurvetson

4 Futaleufu River (Chile)

The Futaleufu River is not only known for white river rafting, but also for its unique permanent river camps, which are built into cliff dwellings with riverside stone hot tubs, hot showers, treehouses and beds. If you need a break from river rafting, you can always try out horseback riding, rock climbing or hiking along the river.

Flickr photo by Northwest Rafting Company

5 Idaho Rivers

White water rafting in Idaho is a thrilling adventure holiday for the wilderness surrounding the area. You can enjoy the scenic view of one of Idaho’s premier rivers, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River or the Main Salmon River, with its crystal clear water and soothing natural hot springs.

Flickr photo by ConanTheLibrarian

6 Yangtze River (China)

Less than 150 people have ever rafted on the Yangtze River in China. The Great Bend runs through canyons that are twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, only a third as wide and the water flow is twice as powerful. If you dare to venture into this unexplored wonder you will be rewarded by an amazing view of mountains with terraced fields and ancient stone villages.

Flickr photo by sullivan_ng

7 Magpie River (Canada)

Beginning on Newfoundland’s Labrador plateau and emptying into the St. Lawrence River, the Magpie River flows through hundreds of kilometers of pine forests. You can easily spend a few days rafting various sections of the river, camping out under the stars before jumping back on the raft to explore more.

Flickr photo by gr_h_m

8 Ganges River (India)

The Ganges, the holy river of India is one of the best places for white water rafting in Asia. Connecting with the wild waters while exploring India and its nature will make your trip worth it. Some of the best places to test your rafting skills are near the Devprayag where two rivers – Bhagirathi and Alaknanda meet and form the Ganges.

Flickr photo by >S@TS<

9 Switzerland

Switzerland usually known for its chocolate, its cheese, its Army Knives, and its banks, but it also provides great rafting opportunities. White water rafting trips in Switzerland have the extra advantage of the beautiful scenery of the Swiss Alps. Some good spots for rafting in the country include Arve, Lütschine, Rhine, Rhone and Saane rivers.

Flickr photo by Pixel Brain

10 Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand

White water rafting was introduced to Thailand only a few years ago but has become a big hit already. It is an ideal activity for the rainy season, which lasts from May to October. A number of river routes have become well-known for whitewater rafting. The North of Thailand has more rivers suitable for rafting than anywhere else. The best-known rafting route is along the Mae Taeng River in Chiang Mai. Another interesting spot for river rafting in Chiang Mai is on the Mae Cham River.

Flickr photo by thebrettburton

*This post was brought to you by www.thailand.ch

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