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 October 23, 2015.
More North American Ski Resorts Open
Last week we told you that Killington became the first ski resort in North America to open for the season, but that distinction didn't last long. This week, two more resorts in Colorado fired up the lifts for the first time in anticipation of a busy season ahead.
Yesterday, both Loveland ski resort and Arapahoe Basin welcomed the first customers of the season. So far this season, Loveland has seen 18" of snowfall, while A-Basin has been busing making artificial snow to get ready for the season. The two resorts often compete with one another to see who will be first to open in Colorado each year.
The last time they opened on the same day was back in 2008.
Nepal Ready for Travelers
The fall season is an important one for the country of Nepal. Traditionally, it has been a busy time for travelers, many of whom come to climb and trek in the Himalaya throughout October and November. But this year things are different, as the mountain trails are mostly empty following the disastrous earthquake that hit the country back in April. But Indefinitely Wild has a nice update on the conditions there, where things are slowly getting back to normal. In fact, the website says now may be a great time to go, as the low number of visitors has made travel inexpensive, and there are plenty of guides and vacancies at local tea houses.
Writer Chris Brinlee, Jr. says that the Annapurna region and the Khumbu Valley are both safe and open. Meanwhile the Langtang district – which was hardest hit by the earthquake – is still under repairs, although the national park is accessible. Much of the infrastructure is still in ruins, so those wanting to go there should expect challenges.
Lonely Planet Announces "Best in Travel 2016"
Travel media giant Lonely Planet has announced its winners for the Best in Travel for 2016. These annual awards stretch across numerous categories, including the top 10 countries to visit, best value destinations, best animal destinations, and so much more. If you're starting to think about your travel plans for next year, and could use a little guidance, Lonely Planet has you covered. You'll find plenty of great tips on where to go, what to see, and when to visit. Check out all the winners here.
Airbnb Testing Handcrafted "Journeys"
Airbnb has revolutionized the accommodations industry, but it hasn't finished working on other options for travelers just yet. According to reports, the company is now testing handcrafted "journeys" in and around the San Francisco area. The tours include travel to and from the airport by Lyft, scheduled activities, one meal a day, and standard accommodations from an Airbnb location. Currently, the Airbnb Journeys are invite only, but they'll open up to further testing in December.
World View Takes Experimental Aircraft to the Edge of Space
The race to provide affordable options for travelers to go into space – or at least low-Earth orbit – has been going on for years. Companies like Virgin Galactic and Space X have made strides forward in this market for awhile now, but setbacks have also cost them dearly. Now, another company called World View has taken a leap forward, but in a very different, and more unconventional way. Earlier in the week, it successfully completed its first test flight, using a specially designed balloon that reached an altitude of 100,475 feet. If all goes according to schedule, the first manned flights will take place in 2017, with a six-person capsule taking adventure travelers to the edge of space. Projected cost? $75,000.
Win a Trip to the Serengeti in Africa
KLM Airlines has launched a campaign to encourage travelers to visit Africa, and is even giving away a safari on the Serengeti. The Pack Your Bags campaign is designed to inform travelers about their options for visiting east and southern Africa, with information about all of the amazing things that those destinations have to offer. Visitors to the site can also sign up to win a 6-day Tanzanian safari with Asilia Africa that is valued at more than $18,000.
No comments:
Post a Comment