Gadling

10 best places to live for avoiding world conflict

Elizabeth Seward — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Learning, Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Seychelles, Bhutan, Iceland, Switzerland, Canada, Costa Rica, United States, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu, News, Central America, Caribbean

Expatify.com asked the question, "Where would you be the safest if World War III broke out tomorrow?" The answers arrived in a post titled "10 Best Places to Live for Avoiding World Conflict." Irrelevant as it may seem to you, the claws of conflict affect a revolving roster of nations. The knowledge of where not to go because of conflict, or better yet, where to go to avoid it, can be useful if you're planning to live, or even just spend some time, abroad. According to this article, countries that make the safety cut are: Switzerland, Costa Rica, Papua New Guinea, Canada, Seychelles, Finland, Tuvalu, Iceland, Bhutan, and New Zealand. Most of these choices make sense to me, based on what I know, but the undeniably gorgeous Seychelles seems like a somewhat uncertain choice. News stories covering the Somali pirates swarming the Seychelles area are prevalent. To be fair, I'm not convinced Somali pirates are a current threat for World War III. What are your thoughts? Where would you move in order to be as far removed from world conflict as possible?

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10 best places to live for avoiding world conflict originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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10 countries Americans need advance visas to visit

Meg Nesterov — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, South America, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Bhutan, China, India, Iran, Pakistan, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Turkmenistan, Belarus, Cuba, United States, Australia, Brazil, Paraguay, Suriname, Middle East, Caribbean, Hong Kong

We live in an increasingly borderless world and we have access to many countries that were closed (or non-existent) 20 years ago. As reported earlier this week, Americans are especially lucky with access to 169 countries visa free. Still, there are still many countries that Americans need advance visas to visit. Visa applications and processing services can cost several hundreds of dollars and take a lot of time and energy to obtain, so figure in that into your travel planning but don't let it discourage you from visiting.

Nearly all countries in Africa, the Caribbean, Central America, Western Europe, and the Middle East will give you a visa free or for a fee on arrival. See below for our guide to countries you will need to apply for advance visas, along with fees, useful information and links to consular websites.

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10 countries Americans need advance visas to visit originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Expedition to climb the second highest unclimbed mountain

Kraig Becker — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Climbing, Hiking, Asia, Bhutan, India

An group of three American climbers have traveled to the Kashmir mountain range this summer, where they will attempt to become the first team to successfully summit Saser Kangri II, the second highest unclimbed peak in the world. The mountain, which stands 24,665 feet in height, is located in a very remote region of northern India that is only accessible during the summer months.

The team consists of climbers Freddie Wilkinson, Mark Richey and Steve Swenson, all of whom are very experienced high altitude mountaineers. Richey and Swenson made an attempt on Saser Kangri II back in 2009, reaching as high as 22,500 feet before turning back due to bad weather. They've decided to return to the mountain to finish off what they started, and asked Wilkinson to tag along for the climb.

Saser Kangri II is the second of four summits on the Saser Kangri massif, and as mentioned above, is the second highest unclimbed peak in the world. The highest unclimbed peak is a mountain named Gangkhar Puensum, which is located inside Bhutan, and is 24,836 feet in height. Many of the inhabitants of Bhutan believe that the tallest mountains in their country are sacred ground, and as a result, the government has banned mountaineering on any peak above 6000 meters or roughly 19,685 feet. In other words, no one can climb Gangkhar Puensum, so mountaineers looking for the next big challenge give Saser Kangri a try instead.

The team set out for India earlier in the week, and it will take them a number of days just to trek into Base Camp, located at about 17,000 feet on the mountain. Over the next few weeks, they'll be scouting the route they hope to take to the summit, while slowly acclimatizing to the altitude. If everything goes as scheduled, they'll be making their attempt at the summit in early August, and with a little luck, become the first men to stand on the top of the mountain.

[Photo courtesy of Steve Swenson]

Expedition to climb the second highest unclimbed mountain originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 10 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Driving from Bangladesh to England in a classic Rolls Royce

Kraig Becker — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Arts and Culture, History, Asia, Europe, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Nepal, Turkey, United Kingdom, Transportation, News

Rupert Grey and his wife Jan are preparing to make an epic road trip this September. The kind of road trip that we all dream about during which we leave our normal, mundane, lives behind in favor of the open road and untold adventures. In this case, our two intrepid travelers will begin their journey in Bangladesh and eventually end up back in their native England, covering thousands of miles in between. But Rupert and Jan aren't content with just making that journey in just any old vehicle, which is why they'll be driving their classic 1936 Rolls Royce along the way.

While the start of their adventure is still a few months off, the couple are making preparations for what will likely be a fantastic journey. They will be shipping their car to Chittagong, Bangladesh, where they will set out to drive through Bhutan, Nepal, and India before arriving at the Arabian Sea. From there, they'll board a ship bound for Iran, where they'll once again hit the open road, crossing into Turkey and eventually Europe, before returning back to the U.K.

Intrigued by this unique road trip, an independent film company hopes to make a documentary of Rupert and Jan's journey. Rover Films is currently seeking funding for the project, and have already tentatively named their film A Sense of Adventure. You can check out the teaser trailer for it below.

Reading about this story left me to wondering. If you could take any road trip in any vehicle, where would you go and what would you drive? For me personally, I'd love to go from Cairo, Egypt to Cape Town, South Africa, in a classic Land Rover Defender. Say circa 1985 or so.

How about you?

[Photo credit: Rover Films]

A Sense Of Adventure OFFICIAL TEASER from Rover Films on Vimeo.

Driving from Bangladesh to England in a classic Rolls Royce originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 12 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Strictest dress codes - 5 countries with fashion police

Justin Delaney — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Activism, Arts and Culture, Africa, Asia, Europe, Sudan, Bhutan, North Korea, Saudi Arabia, France, News, Middle East

Earlier this week, the "Burqa Ban" went into effect in France. Since passing into law, several burqa draped women have already been arrested, and the symbolic law is causing an uproar among the Muslim population of France and beyond. However, France is not the only country with authoritative garment laws. Many countries possess laws that limit what citizens and visitors are allowed to wear.

According to Foreign Policy magazine, these five countries have some of the strictest dress code laws in the world. The list includes countries from three continents, though France is the lone western world inclusion. It is odd that a country known for its fashion houses and pioneering designers is also home to such an autocratic fashion law. I would expect this sort of posturing from the American South, but clothing oppression along the Champs-Élysées seems a bit misplaced.

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Strictest dress codes - 5 countries with fashion police originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Are you ready for a once in a lifetime cycling holiday?

Kraig Becker — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, South America, Egypt, Kenya, Madagascar, Bhutan, India, Indonesia, Israel, Jordan, Laos, Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam, Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Slovenia, Costa Rica, United States, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecotourism, Middle East, Luxury Travel

Pedalers Pub and Grille may sound like a place where you'd stop for some grub after a long day riding your bike, but in actually, its an adventure travel company that specializes in cycling holidays to some of the best destinations on the planet. To celebrate their 25th anniversary, the company has just announced a new tour that will take riders on an eight month, six continent odyssey that will truly be a once in a lifetime experience.

The trip will begin with a "get acquainted" ride through Vermont, which will give everyone who signs up for the tour a chance to get to know one another before the real excitement begins. That shakedown cruise will also give travelers an opportunity to work out the bugs of the trip, such as learning what to carry with them on their daily rides, how to pack and unpack the bikes, and how to endure the rigors of the open road.

From there, the route will take cyclists across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, South America, and Central America, before eventually returning to the United States. In all, they will ride will through nearly 30 countries, including Ireland, France, Italy, Egypt, Kenya, India, Nepal, New Zealand, Peru, Costa Rica, and more. They'll average anywhere form 45-60 miles (80-100km) per day on mostly paved roads with the occasional dirt track as well.

The Once In A Lifetime Tour won't get underway until June of 2012, which gives you plenty of time to save your pennies. With a price tag of $95,000 the trip doesn't come cheap, but that price does include all accommodations, most meals, all transportation costs, guides, tours, and even a custom built bike.

If you happen to have $100k and 8 months of free time coming your way, you may want to consider joining this trip. If nothing else, it sure seems like it'll live up to its name and truly be a once in a lifetime experience.

[Photo credit: Pedalers Pub and Grille]

Are you ready for a once in a lifetime cycling holiday? originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Take a photographic adventure with National Geographic

Kraig Becker — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Arts and Culture, Learning, Festivals and Events, Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Morocco, Bhutan, Costa Rica, United States, Ecuador, Ecotourism, Central America, Luxury Travel

Fans of National Geographic have long been drawn to the magazine's fantastic photos, with many of us wishing we had the skills to take similar shots ourselves. Now, National Geographic Expeditions is offering us the opportunity to go on a photographic adventure while building and honing those skills along the way.

Nat Geo Expeditions is the travel arm of National Geographic, offering up some excellent adventure travel opportunities to a number of far flung places. But they also offer aspiring photographers the chance to take part in photography workshops held throughout the country including New York, Washington DC, Tuscon, and Santa Fe. Those workshops range in length from 4 to 7 days, and will teach you everything you need to know about using that fancy digital camera that you bought, but never got around to learning how to operate. For dates and pricing on those workshops click here.

Perhaps even more exciting however are the Photo Expeditions that Nat Geo has to offer. Those trips are 8-12 days in length and will send you off to some amazing places where you'll learn everything you've always wanted to know about photography. Destinations include Alaska, Bhutan, Morocco, Costa Rica, and the Galapagos Islands. Much like the workshops, these trips are designed for photographers of all skill levels and are led by National Geographic photographers with years of experience in the field. They also happen to add healthy doses of culture and adventure to the mix. For more information on the Photo Expeditions click here.

For someone who loves to snap photos (like me!), but wishes they had a firmer grasp on the technical aspects of the art (also like me!), these workshops and expeditions are fantastic opportunities to learn from an expert. So whether you use a point and shoot or a high-end DSLR, a National Geographic photographic adventure is sure to be a fantastic experience.

[Photo Credit: National Geographic Expeditions]

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Take a photographic adventure with National Geographic originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Outside Magazine posts their 2011 trips of the year

Kraig Becker — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Hiking, Paddling, Scuba Diving, Skiing, Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, South America, Bhutan, Mongolia, Nepal, Russian Federation, France, United States, Argentina, Camping, Ecotourism, News

Adventure travelers still looking for suggestions on what to do, and where to go, this year may find some inspiration courtesy of Outside Magazine which has posted their selection for the 2011 Trips of the Year online.

Compiled by the Outside editors, the list, first appeared in the March print edition of the magazine which is on newsstands now. The recommendations will send travelers off on active adventures to far flung places ranging from Alaska, Nepal, Siberia, and beyond. The trips aren't necessarily for the faint of heart however, as the suggestions include high altitude trekking, heli-skiing, mountain biking, white water rafting and much much more.

Each of the trip recommendations includes a short description of what travelers can expect, suggested dates to go, and a recommendation of a travel company to use when booking the journey yourself. Prices are also included, and be warned that some of them can induce a bit of sticker shock. But these trips are also unique excursions to remote places, which usually don't come cheap. They also happen to be genuinely once in a life time opportunities for most of us, and will almost certainly leave a deep and lasting impression on those who take them.

As an active traveler who happens to enjoy a bit of adventure in my getaways, each of these trips appeals to me on a different level. But were I forced to choose one or two that stand out the most, I'd recommend the mountain biking journey through Argentina's Patagonia or the expedition across Mongolia on horseback. Both offer a fantastic adventure through stunning landscapes unlike any other on Earth.

Outside Magazine posts their 2011 trips of the year originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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National Geographic jumps into the adventure travel arena

Kraig Becker — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Climbing, Hiking, History, Learning, Paddling, Skiing, Festivals and Events, Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Tanzania, Bhutan, Mongolia, Nepal, United States, Chile, Camping, Ecotourism, News, Luxury Travel

The very name National Geographic evokes images of adventure and thoughts of exciting journeys to far away places. The iconic Society has probably done more to inspire travel than any other single entity ever. Several generations have grown up gazing at breathtaking images in the organization's popular magazine and reading about daring explorers on those beautiful, glossy pages. Now, in what seems like a long over due move, Nat Geo is throwing its hat into the adventure travel ring, announcing 11 unique trips that will offer a compelling mix of cultural and physical activity with some of the most stunning scenery on the planet as the backdrop.

The aptly named National Geographic Adventures have itineraries that are sure to appeal to any adventure traveler. For instance, they offer a 15-day trek through the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan that takes you to the 23,997-foot Chomo Lhari - the most sacred mountain in the country. If you prefer your trips keep you closer to sea level however, then perhaps the 9-day Alaska excursion would be more to your liking. That trip features sea kayaking and whale watching in Glacier Bay National Park. Meanwhile, backpackers will likely be enthralled with the 14-day hike through Chile's stunningly beautiful Patagonia region. Other itineraries take travelers to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, on safari in Tanzania, and across Mongolia on horseback.

Each of the itineraries has been specifically crafted with the help of a National Geographic expert, who has applied their knowledge of the various regions to create a series of trips that are unlike any other. Those trips come with an activity level rating, with easy, moderate, strenuous, and "ultimate challenge" options available. Accommodations range from luxury tents to quaint mountain lodges and inns, and the group size is capped at just 16 to ensure the best travel experience possible.

To find out more about these new adventure travel options, click here, and for the full line up of trips from Nat Geo, check out the National Geographic Expeditions website as well.

National Geographic jumps into the adventure travel arena originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Photo of the day (12.16.10)

Meg Nesterov — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Photos, Asia, Bhutan, Photo of the Day

What charmed me about this photo from Thimphu, Bhutan, other than the pleasant colors and lines, was the caption. Flickr user AndreaKW translated the suggestion box's Dzongkha script as literally "thoughts box" and I love the idea, much less pressure than coming up with constructive suggestions. A thoughts box could have notes like "Next time, pack fewer shoes" or "Why don't I ever eat meat on a stick at home?" or even the classic "Help! I'm trapped in a thoughts box!" The possibilities are endless, especially for traveler interaction, like the postcards from strangers project.

Have any photos to leave in our thoughts box? How about adding them to the Gadling group on Flickr? We might just choose one of your shots as our Photo of the Day.

Photo of the day (12.16.10) originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Photo of the Day (11.21.10)

Jeremy Kressmann — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Asia, Bhutan

Ever seen your co-worker wearing a purple suit? Or an electric pink skirt? For whatever reasons, bright colors are not part of the fashion vocabulary of most Westerners. We tend to prefer the safety of muted colors like black and grey. Not so in Bhutan. Flickr user andreakw caught this colorful line-up of women in Bhutan celebrating at a local festival. They're decked out in their kiras, a special style of fabric wrap worn for holidays. Check out the intricate patterns, bright colors and geometric shapes of the cloth. Equally interesting is the solitary woman with the child who stares directly at the camera, drawing the viewer into the scene.

Have any great photos from your recent travels? Why not share them with the world by adding them to our Gadling group on Flickr? We might just pick one of yours as our Photo of the Day.

Photo of the Day (11.21.10) originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 21 Nov 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Great Himalayan Trail on schedule to open in 2011

Kraig Becker — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Arts and Culture, Hiking, Festivals and Events, Asia, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Camping, Ecotourism

Way back in February of this year we told you about the Great Himalayan Trail, an epic hike more than 2800 miles in length that will eventually wind its way through the mountainous regions of Pakistan, India, Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. The trek, which is expected to take roughly 150 days to hike end-to-end, is scheduled to officially open in early 2011, although there are still some challenges to over come before the boots of adventurous travelers begin to walk the route.

2011 is being called Nepal's Tourism Year, and the country is gearing up to promote itself as the top adventure travel destination on the planet. The GHT will play a role in that celebration, as roughly 1200 miles of the trail passes through the country, and while it is expected to officially open in January or February of next year, some are already questioning if that will happen as planned. Ang Tshering Sherpa, a former president of the Nepal Mountaineering Association, says that the trail has mostly been promoted and built by private sector dollars thus far, and he is calling on the Nepali government to inject some much needed funds to help launch the trail in early 2011.Without those funds, he feels that the GHT won't get the recognition that it deserves to draw trekkers to the route.

Meanwhile, the Nepal Tourism Board named American Sean Burch as one of its Goodwill Ambassadors this past week. The 40-year old Burch recently completed an endurance run across Nepal, from the border of India to Tibet, that followed 1250 miles of the GHT, in just 49 days. He will now help to promote the epic new trail abroad, while also encouraging economic development in the villages through which the trail passes.

That economic development will be important for the future of the GHT. On other trekking routes in the region hikers find teahouse lodges and simple restaurants every few hours along the route, but there are large sections of the GHT where those amenities are not yet present. But the trail will provide opportunities for enterprising individuals to build these places, which should help the economies of each of the countries that the GHT passes through.

Trekkers interested in hiking some or all of the trail, should check out GreatHimalayanTrail.com for more information on the available routes and what to expect when it officially opens next year. Start planning your trek now and be sure to let your boss know you're going to need 150 days off to make the hike.

Great Himalayan Trail on schedule to open in 2011 originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Baby snow leopard captured on camera for first time in Bhutan

Kraig Becker — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Arts and Culture, Learning, Asia, Bhutan, Video, News

Snow leopards are amongst the most elusive and shy creatures on the planet. The big cats live at high altitude and are rarely seen by man, let alone captured on camera. But the BBC is reporting that a snow leopard cub has been caught on video for the first time when it triggered a camera trap in the mountains of Bhutan recently.

The video was captured by a camera trap that was set by a BBC film crew who were hoping to get some footage of the rare animals in their natural habitat. The device has a built-in motion sensor that is designed to turn the camera on when something moves within range of the lens. This allows a crew to set up cameras and leave them in the field for extended periods without the need for a cameraman or requiring the batteries to be charged on a daily basis. The team then returns every few days to review the findings and check the status of the device.

This particular trap was activated when the young snow leopard wandered into range. After surveying the area nervously, the cub begins to wander up hill directly at the lens. Looking straight into the camera, the cat sniffs it curiously before slowly moving on. The entire encounter was a brief one, but for the veteran BBC crew, it was the shot of a lifetime.

The footage of the young leopard will air this week on the BBC's nature special Lost Land of the Tiger a show that also captured video of tigers living at higher altitudes than had ever been recorded before. It seems this particular film crew had lightning strike twice while producing this show.

[Photo credit: Aaron Logan via WikiMedia]

Baby snow leopard captured on camera for first time in Bhutan originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Photo of the Day (9.4.2010)

Catherine Bodry — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Asia, Bhutan, Photo of the Day, Budget Travel

One of my all-time favorite things in the whole world is riding second class buses in foreign countries. Though I could probably now afford to travel on a bigger budget than in my early 20s, I prefer the experiences of public transportation. It's not just mingling with locals and experiencing eight hours bouncing on a bus with no shocks; I also love the sheer gaudiness of it all: the loud music or TV, bright lights, livestock, crowds - all of it delights me endlessly. And another thing I love about these buses? The decorations. Whether it's idols and fringe in India, Mary figurines in Mexico or incense sticks in China, care is always taken to make sure the buses are decked out to the gods' satisfaction. These buses, shot by Flickr user andreakw in Bhutan, also seem to be appeasing the wary traveler. Who doesn't feel safe traveling on a bus painted with cheerful rainbows?

Have any travel photos that remind of you a few of your favorite things? Upload them to Gadling's Flickr pool, and we just might select one for our Photo of the Day feature.

Photo of the Day (9.4.2010) originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 04 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bhutan plans Gross National Happiness center

Sean McLachlan — Thu, 27 May 2010 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Arts and Culture, Asia, Bhutan, Budget Travel

The Himalayan nation of Bhutan is famous for its government policy of measure progress not by Gross National Product, but by Gross National Happiness. The brainchild of former King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, it puts the well-being of the general population at the forefront of national policy.

Of course this is an ideal, and Bhutan is a poor country. A recent series of suicides has shocked the nation and now the government is planning a Gross National Happiness center to help improve the people's morale.

The Prime Minister Lyonchhoen Jigmi Y Thinley has already visited the proposed site, a 45 acre pine forest, and said in a newspaper interview that the center would, "become home for the promotion and practice of happiness, by establishing a facility where people from all walks of life can come and stay to imbibe the sense of happiness."

Bhutan is a favorite destination for trekkers and adventure travelers attracted by the beautiful and rugged mountains and traditional lifestyle, perfectly captured in one of our old Photo of the Day entries. For more photos of Bhutan, check out BluePeak's excellent series of images on Flickr, such as this one showing a monk who seems to have his happiness in order.

Here's hoping that travelers will soon have a place to practice improving their own happiness.

Bhutan plans Gross National Happiness center originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 27 May 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Photo of the Day (2.28.2010)

Jeremy Kressmann — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Asia, Bhutan, Photo of the Day

For anyone with an urge to travel, Bhutan is one of those last great "untouched" destinations we all dream of visiting. A majestic kingdom of towering mountains, holy Buddhist retreats and smiling friendly locals. Flickr user sylhoo was lucky enough to visit Bhutan, capturing this serene shot of a mountain-top prayer shrine, criss-crossed with colorful prayer flags.

Have any great photos you'd like to submit for Gadling's Photo of the Day? Submit your best shots here.

Photo of the Day (2.28.2010) originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 28 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New epic trekking route set to open in the Himalaya in 2011

Kraig Becker — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Arts and Culture, Hiking, Asia, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, Pakistan

Have you already conquered the world's top treks? Already hiked the Inca Trail, made the trek to Everest Base Camp, and scaled Kilimanjaro? Do the Pacific Crest and Appalachian Trails seem passe? Then get ready for a new long distance trekking route set to open in the Himalaya next year, that will challenge even the heartiest of backpackers with its distance and altitude.

Known at the Great Himalaya Trail, this new route will run approximately 2800 miles through some of the most remote and stunningly beautiful locations on the planet. The snow capped peaks of the Himalaya will tower above hikers as they pass through Bhutan, Tibet, India, Nepal, and Pakistan, on a route that will be an epic undertaking from beginning to end.

The trail will begin in Namche Barwa in Tibet and extend all the way to Nanga Parbat in Pakistan. It is estimated that it will take roughly 150 days to hike the GHT from end to end, although it will also be broken up into seven sections, which can be completed in 18 to 35 days depending on which segment a trekker elects to do. Much of the route will be inaccessible by road, but will instead pass through remote villages that will allow for resupply, while giving backpackers a chance to immerse themselves in the unique and fascinating local cultures.

Continue reading New epic trekking route set to open in the Himalaya in 2011

New epic trekking route set to open in the Himalaya in 2011 originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Top 10 (+2) adventure destinations for 2010

Kraig Becker — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:30:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Arts and Culture, Hiking, History, Paddling, Skiing, Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, South America, Antarctica, Botswana, Madagascar, Bhutan, Mongolia, Nepal, Iceland, Canada, New Zealand, Chile, Peru, Camping, Ecotourism

With 2009 rapidly coming to an end, it is time to look ahead to 2010 and begin making our travel plans. For adventure travelers, the year ahead is full of possibilities, with amazing destinations just waiting to deliver the trip of a lifetime. Here are ten of the very best places to feed your need for adventure.

10. Antarctica
One of the most coveted destinations on any adventure traveler's list has always been Antarctica, the coldest, highest, and driest place on the planet. The frozen continent is remote, rugged, and challenging, but there are now multiple ways of getting there, ranging from luxury cruises to "last degree" ski expeditions to the South Pole. You could easily make the argument that Antarctica is the last great frontier, and perhaps the most adventurous destination on Earth, and should be ranked higher on this list. I'd agree with those sentiments, except for one very big consideration, which is the expense of getting there. Unfortunately, it still costs a good deal of money to visit Antarctica, and for now, it is beyond the budget of many of those adventurous enough to want to make the journey.

9. British Columbia, Canada
If you're the kind of person that enjoys a busy, active vacation than perhaps British Columbia should be your next destination. Located in Western Canada, BC has so many options for outdoor adventures, you may never want to go home. Adrenaline junkies will have opportunities to mountain bike, hike, and climb there way through the Canadian Rockies. And when you grow tired of all the fun on dry land, the Pacific Ocean beacons with some great sailing and sea kayaking options as well. Throw in breathtaking scenery and legendary Canadian hospitality, and you have everything you need for a very adventurous trip. Don't miss out on a visit to Vancouver while in the area too, and you'll discover why it is considered to be one of the best cities on the planet.

Continue reading Top 10 (+2) adventure destinations for 2010

Top 10 (+2) adventure destinations for 2010 originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Happy birthday King Wangchuck and other national holidays

Sean McLachlan — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Arts and Culture, Learning, Festivals and Events, Azerbaijan, Bhutan, France, Canada, United States, Travel Trivia

Going to a far-flung destination and want to connect with the people and see something special? One easy way is through local and national holidays. These are often unique to a particular country and provide insights into its culture and history. But it can often be hard to find out what's going on next week in Tuvalu.

The Holidays Around the World blog is your answer, providing daily updates on all the major happenings. Today, for example, is the birthday of the fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. He abdicated last year, but his birthday is still a national holiday. The website does more than list holidays, it goes into detail about what you can expect while you're there. Today the people of Bhutan are celebrating by eating emadatse (chili pepper and cheese stew) and chang (warm beer made from barley, millet or rice). If it's anything like Tibetan chang, be careful. With the high altitudes in the Himalayas this stuff gave me the worst hangover I've ever had.

November 11 is, of course, the anniversary of the end of the First World War. The ceasefire started on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918. The soldiers on both sides knew it was coming, but instead of keeping a low profile until the war officially ended, they blasted away at each other with a massive artillery barrage. People are weird. This holiday is known as Armistice Day in France, Remembrance Day in Canada, and a more general Veterans Day in the United States.

So head on over to this cool little blog, and don't forget to dance in the streets tomorrow to celebrate Azerbaijan's Constitution Day.

Happy birthday King Wangchuck and other national holidays originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Last minute oddball Halloween costumes that reflect your travels

Jamie Rhein — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Arts and Culture, Festivals and Events, Asia, Bhutan, Singapore

While Catherine has Halloween costume ideas that reflect different types of travelers--(there are more ideas coming throughout today), and Heather previously posted on how to dress up like an awesome flight attendant, here are other costume ideas. These wander into the unusual--possibly the obscure.

Each are based on travel and incorporate souvenirs you may have brought home with you, particularly if you have problems passing up purchases. All were thought of at the last minute for a past Halloween and were worn at a party.

As a note, you may have to explain what you are, although the responses to each were positive.

Also, as you travel this year, think of costume ideas as you go. In this picture I see items that might come in handy. Read on.

Costume 1: A Homonym

Continue reading Last minute oddball Halloween costumes that reflect your travels

Last minute oddball Halloween costumes that reflect your travels originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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