Adventure Travel
Are You Up for It?
An adventure travel column
Adventure travel is the fastest-growing sector of the industry. It may also be the most misunderstood. In this column I hope to dispel a few of the myths surrounding this style of touring.
The biggest misconception is that you have to be young and in top physical condition to successfully conquer the challenges. Nothing could be further from the truth. The average adventure tourist is around 43 and it's not unusual for participants to be substantially older. On my last trip through Thailand, at 31, I was the youngest. Two of my co-travellers were gentlemen over 70 who had just completed back-to-back trips through Vietnam! So if you're in fair physical condition, age should not restrict you.
Practically anyone can do an adventure tour and have the time of their life, as long as they choose the itinerary wisely and understand up front what to expect. Ask yourself some key questions before you book:
What about accommodation and transportation?
Accommodation varies with the tour and tour company. Most tour companies choose accommodation that is clean, comfortable and locally owned. The varied forms of transportation really add to the experience.
Does change bother me?
Due to the destinations and the nature of these trips, it' s sometimes necessary to modify itineraries en route. If you can accept this and keep an open mind, you have the right mindset for such a holiday.
What kind of comfort level do I expect?
From time to time, the accommodation level may not be what you anticipate. Choose your itinerary carefully. If you like nicer hotels, stay away from tours where you'll spend a week in a hill-tribe village in Vietnam!
How much culture shock is too much for me?
The aim is to live as the locals do. This will not be a typical beach holiday, but you'll be experiencing a country, rather than just visiting it.
Is this trip too physically demanding?
Levels vary greatly and most companies will rate a trip based on its difficulty. Ask an adventure travel specialist to help you decide what's right for you.
Is travelling alone a problem?
Adventure touring is a great way to travel and make friends from around the globe. About 40% of adventure travellers are single. Many tour companies offer single-share programs with no extra cost for travelling alone. If there is another same-sex single on the tour, you are expected to share accommodation; if not, you get a room to yourself at no additional charge (most tours).
Are exotic holidays expensive?
Though the countries tend to be farther from Canada than more typical destinations, the cost probably won't be significantly higher than a two-week stay in Mexico. For example, a two-week tour of Southeast Asia is in the $1,000 to $1,200 range (plus airfare). And since the cost of living in most of the destination countries is usually considerably lower than ours, you'll get good value for your money.
Where can I go?
There are trips here in your own back yard. Or how about sailing down the Nile River, or hiking the Inca Trail to the lost city of Machu Picchu? Perhaps an African safari? The sky's the limit, and regardless of what you choose, you'll be embarking on one of life's most unforgettable experiences!
How far in advance do I book?
In most cases, you can book a year or two in advance. Due to the small group size, tours tend to fill up quickly, and for a small deposit (about $300) you'll secure the dates you want. This leaves you lots of time to pay for your holiday and, more important, research it. You'll enjoy your trip much more if you familiarize yourself with your destination.
Who'll be touring with me?
This is strictly luck of the draw, but this sector attracts many travellers from Europe and Australia. The common bond is a love for travel and new experiences.
Is adventure travel safe?
It's infinitely safer than travelling alone. Plus, you'll benefit from a tour director who is up to date on any potential risks due to political unrest, weather, etc.
I like to travel independently. Would I be happy on a tour?
That 's a decision only you can make, but keep in mind that unless you have a few months to wander around, it would be difficult for you to equal the enjoyment and experiences you'd get from a tour. The logistics of moving around in a country where there is often a language barrier, while trying to find the best sights to see, will put a huge strain on your enjoyment level. Why not let someone trained and experienced worry about the technicalities, while you sit back and enjoy?
Will I have free time outside group activities?
Adventure travel companies realize that clients value their independence and freedom, and itineraries reflect that. You will have time to explore on your own, though trips can differ. Do your homework.
Contact Glenn
Are you up for adventure travel? I hope I've shed some light on this exciting and highly addictive style of travel. If you'd like to discuss adventure travel in more detail, please call me at 403-299-4370, or email gwebster@calgarycoop.com. It's always a pleasure to talk travel with a fellow adventure seeker!
