Wednesday, 25 November 2015

Adventure Travel News: Warnings for France and Egypt, Ski News, and More

Eiffel Tower, Paris, France - Nicolas Halftermeyer
The Eiffel Tower in Paris.  Nicolas Halftermeyer

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 November 20, 2015.

Travel Advisories for France
Following the tragic events that took place in Paris last week it is not too surprising that a number of countries and institutions have issued travel advisories for those visiting France.

While none of those advisories recommend not going at all, governments are telling travelers to be vigilant, listen to local authorities, and remain cautious when visiting the European country. French leaders have voted to extend the state of emergency their for three months, as they look to improve security, and seek out all of those responsible for the attacks.

Furthermore, ISIS – the organization claiming responsibility for the act of terrorism – has promised that more attacks will follow. If that is the case, it could be some time before a state of normalcy returns to France.

U.K. Issues Travel Warning for Egypt too
Following the bombing of a Russian aircraft over the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt on October 31, the U.K. has issued a severe travel warning to its citizens traveling to that country, and the Sharm el Sheikh region in particular. No aircraft are currently flying directly to the U.K. from that part of Egypt, and the British government is advising travelers to avoid Egypt due to a "high threat of terrorism" in certain parts of the country. The advisory does not cover the main tourist attractions, most notably Cairo, the Pyramids, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, nor the resort areas along the Red Sea.

 

National Geographic Announces World Legacy Awards Finalists
National Geographic has announced the 15 finalists in its 2016 World Legacy Awards, a program created to honor companies, organizations, and destinations that are striving to make a positive impact on the tourism industry. This year's nominees include Laguna Lodge Eco Resort in Guatemala, Tierra Patagonia in Chile, and Arkaba by Wild Bush Luxury in Australia.

To see all of the nominees, and learn more about the program at the official World Legacy Awards website. 

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort to Open on Thanksgiving Day
In anticipation of a great ski season ahead, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has announced that it will open on Thanksgiving Day. Well known for its epic snowfalls, the resort has already received 48" of snow this year, with plenty more in the forecast. Jackson Hole is considered one of the best ski destinations in all of North America, and even earned the #1 spot on Forbes' Top 10 Ski Resorts list. 

Not to be outdone, Colorado's Steamboat Ski Resort has announced that it is opening early due to unusually heavy snow for November as well. The mountain has received an impressive 3.5 feet (!) of snow this month alone, which is allowing it to fire up the lifts starting tomorrow, November 21. That means that visitors will get a little extra time in Steamboat's famous Champagne Powder this year. 

Big Bear Offering $15 Lift Tickets
Ski season is nearly upon on us here in North America, and with it comes some impressive deals to start the festivities. Big Bear Lake in California is anticipating a fantastic season ahead, thanks in no small part to a "Godzilla" El Niño that is already picking up steam. The resort is expecting heavy snowfalls throughout the year, and to celebrate it is offering lift tickets for as low as $15. But if you want to take advantage of this deal, you'd better hurry. The special rate ends today. 

Join Natural Habitat Adventures on an Antarctic Sailing Excursion
Natural Habitat Adventures has announced a new Antarctic sailing itinerary that allows guests to fly to and from the frozen continent to take part in the journey. The expedition is set to begin in December of 2016, with departures from Punta Arenas, Chile. Travelers will board a flight out of that city bound for Antarctica, skipping the long journey across the infamous Drake Passage. They will then sail for 12 or 17 days, depending on the choice of tours, before flying back to South America. This option gives visitors to Antarctica more time to explore the icy region, while allowing them to bypass what is sometimes a difficult trip by sea. Of course, the new itinerary comes with quite a price tag. The tour begins at $21,995. To find out more, click here. 

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