Exotic Trips Offer Unexpected Surprises
Vacation.
The word brings about images of lounging on sandy beaches and relaxation — a true break from the monotony of the everyday. These five destinations, however, are exciting departures from the typical tropical getaway. Rather, these adventure vacation options cater to both adventure junkies and tourists alike, offering unique opportunities within these idyllic and unusual havens.
Cycling Along the Coasts of Lofoten Island
Cyclists spend seven days traveling 200 miles of gorgeous coastline on this Norwegian Island. Four different trips, offered by Ciclismo Classico, allow cyclists of varying abilities to experience all the island has to offer.
Lauren Hefferon, founder and director of Ciclismo Classico, considers Lofoten to be one of the most gorgeous places she’s ever been.
“Lofoten is an incredible place,” she said. “Its green, sculpted, soaring mountains surround you as you cycle rolling roads along the crystal blue North Sea. Tiny fishing hamlets, abundant museums, winding roads, the serenading sea birds and 24 hours of light have rooted themselves in my heart.”
Norwegian adventurer Sandro Della Mea will lead the tour. From scenic views to actually crossing the Arctic Circle, tourists can relish in guided bike tours, food and wine tastings and museum visits. Groups, which typically contain six to 22 cyclists, have the chance to experience the local culture by interacting with natives of the island and attending festivals. Accommodations and meals are included.
Looking for a trip that’s a little more wild? Adventure Life’s tour of Guyana’s Savannas might do the trick.
Known as the “land of many waters,” Guyana allows travelers to explore the country’s rainforests. This 10-day adventure begins in Georgetown, and from there tourists will spend time searching for wildlife like anteaters, fauna and flora and enjoy activities such as fishing, bird watching, horseback riding and hiking.
“Guyana is gaining renown in the ecotourism industry as it’s one of the most pristine places in the world,” said Jonathan Brunger, operations manager at Adventure Life. “In addition to being home to the world’s most spectacular waterfalls, Kaieteur Falls, and the laid-back Caribbean culture, Guyana is a haven for wildlife like giant river otters, jaguars and innumerable species of birds.”
The trip ends at the travelers’ leisure. They can choose from a boat ride on the Essequibo River or hike Turtle Mountain, among other options. At just under $3,000 for four or more people, the tour includes hotel, meal, guide service and airfare accommodations.
Roughly the size of Connecticut, Slovenia’s fishing season extends from March through November, rewarding fishermen with prime access to the country’s many waters.
According to Kirsten Garden, Slovenia program manager for Frontiers Travel, most people wouldn’t think of Slovenia when naming fly fishing havens.
“Slovenia offers an amazing diversity of fishing waters from chalk streams that look and feel like England to the turquoise waters of the Soča River in the Julian Alps,” Garden said.
She added that anglers can catch the marble trout, the largest of which ever caught weighed in at a hefty 55.1 pounds and measured 47.5 inches.
Behold the wondrous Antarctic landscape on an 11-day expedition cruise. Offered by The Antarctic Dream, guests can explore the Great White Continent by kayak and through a once-in-a-lifetime camping trip on the peninsula.
“There truly is no better way to touch and see live the wonders of Antarctica,” said Mauricio Retamales, executive direction of The Antarctic Dream.
Guests depart from Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, and set out to explore the wildlife and stunning glaciers and icebergs on the fairly untouched continent.
Frontiers Travel is taking skiing to new heights — helicopter heights, that is. Advanced skiers can now experience skiing like never before with heli-skiing, which gives skiers helicopter access to mountain peaks throughout Patagonia, a South American region that includes Chile and Argentina.
“Heli-skiing in Patagonia with Nomads of the Sea is an experience reserved for the best skiers. Their reward? Playing in the untouched powder of the Andes,” said Mollie Fitzgerald, director of Frontiers Travel, Elegant Journeys. “From the mountain peaks, the views of glaciers and the ocean are incredible.”
This is the perfect trip for adventurous skiers looking to cruise over sparkling, fresh snow, all the while taking in amazing views of the sea and nearby glaciers. Guests can partake in other activities, including kayaking, rafting and horseback riding.
After a day of skiing, travelers hunker down on Atmosphere, a small private yacht by Nomads of the Sea, where they will enjoy elite cuisine and spa services, among other amenities.
While these trips may not be for the average person, they are special options that offer the chance to see some truly amazing parts of the world. Though slightly off the beaten path, vacations in each destination — Norway, Guyana, Slovenia, Antarctica and Patagonia — are five trips that must make your bucket list.
