Each week we bring you the latest news, commentary, and special deals from the world of adventure travel. Here are some stories that may be of interest from the week ending September 25, 2015.
U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Venezuela
Earlier in the week the U.S. State Department issued a travel warning for Venezuela, citing concerns of the safety and security of American citizens traveling in the South American country.
The main focus of the updated warning, which replaces one issued in December of last year, is increased crime rates that include robbery, pickpocketing, assault and more. While American's are not necessarily the target of these attacks, there have been high profile assaults by armed gunmen in Venezuela on banks, shopping malls, and public transportation.
The warning also reminds travelers that the country has the second highest homicide rate in the world. The bottom line is, if you're visiting Venezuela in the near future, be extra vigilant and careful.
Rare Rhinos Spotted in Indonesia
Good news for conservationists and animal lovers this week when the WWF revealed that camera traps in Indonesia captured photos of a rare Javan rhino and her young calf. The species has been on the brink of extinction for over five decades, but has now started to show signs of a rebound. This was the third calf spotted in the wild this year, and the number of rhinos living in Ujung Kulon National Park is now believed to have risen to 60, twice that of what it was just a few decades ago.
The rebound has been so good in fact that National Geographic says that the park may be nearing its capacity for the creatures, with some of them having to be relocated elsewhere in the near future. Of course, rhino populations are still incredibly low, and there is a long way to go before they are actually safe once again, but this is certainly a step in the right direction.
Polar Guides to Hold First Joint Conference
The International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) and the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) are holding a joint conference in Toronto next week to discuss best practices for guiding in polar regions. This is the first time that these two groups have come together to share information on how they can make arctic and antarctic travel safer and more environmentally responsible. The three-day conference will host panel discussions, workshops, and guest speakers, with the aim of making it easier and safer for adventure travelers to visit these places, while also keeping those fragile environments intact. More information, including a full agenda, can be found on the IAATO website.
Everest Hits Theaters
If you're looking for a little escape to the Himalayas this weekend, you may want to give the new film Everest a look. It features outstanding cinematography that was filmed on location in Nepal, and does a good job of telling the tale of the notorious 1996 climbing season, which at the time was the worst disaster that mountain has ever seen. The film first began showing in IMAX theaters last week, but goes into wider release this weekend. It features solid acting by a highly recognizable cast and gorgeous scenery, while also giving a mainstream audience a peek at what it like to climb a major mountain.
Return to Nepal with Geringer Global Travel
Speaking of Everest, there is a concerted effort being undertaken in the travel community at the moment to encourage travelers to go back to Nepal this fall. One company – Geringer Global Travel – is offering a 14-day excursion that immerses visitors in the culture of the Himalayan country, while taking them to the jungles and mountains that it is so well known for. Highlights include a tour of Kathmandu, a visit to a Buddhist monastery, a trek in the Annapurna region, and a fly-over of Mt. Everest itself. Prices start at $3758/person with travel before December 15.
Save Big on a Journey to Iceland to See the Northern Lights
Traveling to Iceland to see the Northern Lights is a common bucket list item for most adventure travelers. Now, you can make that dream a reality thanks to a very affordable itinerary being offered by GreatValue Vacations. The 5-night excursion includes airfare from New York City, hotel accommodations in Reykjavik, an afternoon tour of the city, daily breakfast, and more for just $899. Departures are set for January of 2016, with this offer expiring on October 10. Hurry and take advantage of it while you can.
That's all for this week. We'll be back next week with more news from the world of adventure travel.
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