Adventure Travel News: Bike From Paris to Moscow, Ski Deals, and More

Join the Napoleon Cycling Tour from Paris to Mosow.  Ride and Seek Cycling Tours

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 6, 2015. 

 New Cycling Tour Runs From Paris to Moscow
Cycling tours has been one of the fastest growing forms of adventure travel over the past few years, with new options appearing all of the time. But a new trip offered by a company Ride & Seek just might be the ultimate European bike ride.

The aptly named Napoleon Bike Tour covers more than 2720 miles, running from Paris, France to Moscow, Russia. The trip winds its way through the Champaign region of France, into southern Germany, across Poland, and into the former Soviet Union. The entire tour takes 43 days to complete, and costs a whopping $15,539.

Individual 15-day segments can also be ridden at a price of $5478. Find out more here. 

Early Season Ski Deals and Promotions
November is here and the ski season is nearly upon us. With the snow already flying in the Rockies, it appears that we're on track to see more powder on the slopes this year. It may be early, but there are already some solid deals to be had, as the major resorts prepare to open over the next few weeks. For instance, Pronghorn ski resort in Bend, Oregon is running a special that could save visitors up to 45% when the book by November 20. Simply book a three-night stay, and buy a three-day lift pass, and you'll receive the third night of your accommodations, and your third day of skiing, free.

 

Over at Jackson Hole, Wyoming they're preparing to fire up the lifts for the first time on Thanksgiving Day, as the welcome skiers and snowboarder for the first time this season. On Friday, November 27 they'll also be offering quite a deal for Flashback Friday. On that day, all lift tickets will be just $6.

 

All season long, look for great deals on lift tickets at Liftopia.com, the largest online source for ski deals. Even though most of the resorts have yet to open, there are already some substantial savings to be had. 

Lonely Planet Launches New Travel Magazine
Lonely Planet, the largest source of travel media in the world, has expanded the empire a bit further. The company has just announced a new quarterly magazine that is available in the U.S., with the first issue now available. Lonely Planet magazine costs just $8 per year, and promises engaging stories, and great photography in every issue. Digital editions are also available on iOS, Android, and Kindle. 

Mountain Madness Announces New Trips for 2016
Mountain Madness, one of the top mountaineering and trekking companies in the world, has announced a number of new trips for 2016. Amongst the new expeditions are a climb up a 7000 meter peak in the Indian Himalaya known as Nun. This mountain is considered a good stepping stone for Everest, with climbers gaining important experience. Other new options include a skiing trip to Japan, rock climbing in Utah, and trekking trips through Patagonia. There is even a new deluxe option for climbing Aconcagua in Argentina. Find out more at MountainMadness.com. 

Win an African Safari to Kenya
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Natural Habitat Adventures have teamed up to send one lucky winner off on the trip of a lifetime. The two organizations are giving away an African safari to Kenya for two that includes airfare from the U.S., all accommodations, and meals, while in Kenya. The winners will stay in a luxury tented mobile safari on the Maasi Mara National Reserve. For more details, and to enter the sweepstakes, click here. 

That's all for this week. Come back next Friday for more adventure travel news. 

The Proper Gear for Trekking in the Himalaya

Jöttnar Fenrir Jacket brings down comfort to a Himalayan Hike.  Jöttnar

Nepal is one of the most popular trekking destinations in the world, and for good reason. It is home to some of the best trails on the planet, including the spectacular Annapurna Circuit, and the very popular hike to Everest Base Camp. The truly adventurous might even take on the entire Great Himalaya Trail, which stretches for a mind-blowing 2800 miles through alpine settings that are unmatched by any other mountain range on Earth.

But before you go, you'll want to make sure you have the proper gear to keep you safe and comfortable along the way. Here's what you should take with you.

(Note: All prices are MSRP. Most of these items can be found online for less.)

Backpack
Whether you are trekking independently, or with guides, you'll want to have a comfortable backpack with plenty of storage capacity to carry all of your gear.

During the say, you'll want easy access to extra layers of clothing, snacks, camera equipment, and various other items, and your pack will be key to carrying all of that stuff. Make sure that it is also hydration-ready, meaning it can hold a hydration bladder, allowing you to easily drink water while out on the trail.

Recommendation: Osprey Atmos 50 ($230)

Sleeping Bag
Most nights in the Himalaya will be spent staying in traditional teahouse or sometimes even tents, depending on the location. As the altitude increase, the nights will get colder, which means you'll need a good sleeping bag to help keep you warm. That bag should carry a temperature rating of 0 degrees Fahrenheit or -17 degree celsius.

If additional warmth made be needed, you can augment it with a liner as well. 

Recommendation: Eddie Bauer Kara Koram ($549) with DownTek waterproof down

Boots
The  hiking trails in the Himalaya can be remote, rugged, and demanding. Thats why you'll need a good pair of boots to help keep your feet, ankles, and legs safe and fresh.

Light hiking shoes won't cut in the big mountains, so invest in a pair of boots that are built for backpacking or mountaineering. As the days on the trail pass, you'll be glad you did. 

Recommendation: AKU Superalp GTX ($359.95)

Socks
Most people don't put too much thought into their socks, but they are a key element to keeping your feet happy and healthy on a long trek. You'll want socks that are comfortable, breathable, and provide plenty of protection. Stick to merino wool for the best all around performance.

Recommendation: Smartwool Hiking Socks (price varies)

Trekking Poles
Trekking poles are essential for a long distance hike like those that you'll undertake in the Himalaya. They can provide stability and balance both while climbing up and descending back down, saving you a lot of wear and tear on your knees. Using the poles can take a bit of getting use to, so practice with them before the trip. Once out on the trail, you'll be very glad you have them. 

Recommendation: Leki Corklite Antishock ($159.95)

Down Jacket
As you climb higher into the mountains, temperatures will drop considerably. That's why you'll want to carry a down jacket with you on your visit to Nepal. Lightweight, highly packable, and extremely warm, down jackets are a mainstay in the mountaineering and trekking world. When the winds begin to howl and the snows start to fly, you'll still stay warm and cozy.

Recommendation: Jöttnar Fenrir Jacket ($300) with DownTek waterproof down

Storm Shell
You'll also want a more versatile jacket to wear for most days on the trail. A storm shell fits those needs nicely, providing protection from both the wind and rain. Lighter in weight, and a bit more versatile than a down jacket, a shell is built for active pursuits in the mountains. When paired with a layering system, it provides the outer layer that helps keep the wearer warm and dry. 

Recommendation: Outdoor Research Furio Jacket ($375)

Base Layers
When creating a good layering system for staying comfortable in the outdoors, everything starts with the base layer. These are the articles of clothing that sit closets to the skin, and help wick away moisture to keep the wearer drier and more comfortable. Highly breathable, most base layers are versatile enough to be worn on their own, or in conjunction with other clothing as well. Be sure to bring both a top and bottom.

Recommendation: Patagonia Capilene Series (price varies)

Mid-Layers
The middle layer of any layering system sits between the base and the shell, and provides important insulation for warmth. Often made of fleece, the mid-layer adds versatility to the system by allowing it to be added or removed as needed. While hiking in the Himalaya, it will definitely be a much appreciated addition to your wardrobe. 

Recommendation: Mountain Hardwear Monkey Man Jacket ($150)

Trekking Pants
Trekking pants are designed to hiking, providing support in the knees and seat, while allowing the wearer to walk unimpeded even through demanding environments. They are also built to work as part of a layering system, allowing you wear a base layer underneath if necessary. 

Recommendation: The North Face Arroyo Cargo Pants ($80)

Gloves
Depending on which route you're trekking, and the weather you encounter, you may need to carry two pairs of gloves with you. A lighter pair for keeping your hands warm when the weather begins to cool, and a thicker, more insulated pair when temperature really start to plunge, and conditions could include snow or freezing rain. Either way, you'll want your hands to stay plenty warm. 

Recommendation: The North Face Power Stretch Glove ($35) or Outdoor Research Stormtracker Gloves ($70)

Hat
You'll definitely want to carry a hat with you on a hike through the Himalaya, and quite possibly more than one. At lower altitudes, a wide-brimmed hat helps to keep the sun out of your face and eyes, and when you go higher a warmer stocking cap may be in order. Either way, you'll be glad you have some protection for your head throughout the trek. 

Recommendation: Marmot Preclip Safari Hat ($45) or Mountain Hardwear Power Stretch Beanie ($20)

Buff
Finally, I'd recommend carrying a Buff with you, not only on a trip to the Himalaya, but pretty much anywhere. This versatile piece of headwear can serve as a headband, neck scarf, balaclava, facemark, and so much more. I carry my Buff with me everywhere, and it comes in incredibly handy in many situations. Available in a wide variety of prints, weights, and styles, you'll be glad you have one for your next adventure too. (price varies)

This is a solid overview of the gear you'll want with you on trek through Nepal, Tibet, or even Bhutan. There are other items to bring as well, but these products are a good base to get you started. 

5 Adventurous Destinations That Need Visitors Now

The Pyramids at Giza.  Kraig Becker

Tourism is a major source of revenue for many countries across the globe, employing millions of people and helping to drive the economy in places that don't necessarily have very many other resources. So, when the travel sector takes a down turn for one reason or another, it can leave countless people without an income, and cause already poor countries to struggle even further. Right now, there are a number of destinations where this is happening, and by going there we can help ease the burden to a degree.

Here are five such places you may want to consider adding to your list for the near future. 

Nepal
Nepal is definitely a country that relies heavily on visitors to keep its economy running. Typically, each spring and fall, hosts of adventure travelers and mountaineers descend on the Asian country to go hiking and climbing in the High Himalaya.

But this past spring a devastating earthquake rocked the region, killing  more than 9000 people, and destroying whole villages in the process. Since that time, the country has been struggling to get back on its feet, and while great strides have been made to return to normalcy, there are some areas that are still in the rebuilding process. As the fall trekking season begins, foreign visitors are in short supply, leaving trekking routes empty and the traditional teahouses vacant. 

Travel Options: Hike to Everest Base Camp or Trek the Spectacular Annapurna Circuit

East Africa
The 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa has left the travel industry on the entire continent in shambles. Despite the fact that the outbreak occurred thousands of miles away, and there were no reported cases in the region, East Africa in particular continues to struggle.

Kenya and Tanzania are two of the most popular safari destinations in the world, and yet many guides remain without work, and safari lodges are offering steep discounts in an attempt to attract travelers. Things are slowly starting to improve there, but it has been a long struggle to overcome the perception that all of Africa is threatened by the disease.

 

Travel Options: Safari on the Serengeti or Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro

Egypt
The tourism sector in Egypt first took a hit with the economic downturn of 2008, which was followed two years later by the Arab Spring. For months after the uprising the country went through a period of unrest, while several factions vied for power there. Now, things are stable and safe, and yet visitors have been slow to return. In fact, most Nile cruise ships now sit at their docks waiting to resume their river voyages once again. Similarly, famous tourist sites like the Pyramids and Sphinx see only a fraction of the visitors they once did, which is helping to create an economic crisis. In 2010, the Egyptian tourism industry generated $12.5 billion in revenue. By 2014 that number had dropped to just $5.9 billion. 

Travel Options: Take a classic tour of Egypt or an extended one

Greece
Greece's economic woes over the past few years are well known, and the country continues to struggle with overcoming crippling debt and a difficult bailout from its European neighbors. About 20% of the country's GDP comes from the tourism sector, which had been growing modestly until the recent influx of migrants fleeing Syria and other embattled nations in the Middle East. Now, the travel sector is slowing down as visitors look to avoid the refugees by going elsewhere. If Greece is ever to see its economic fortunes rebound, it will need to lure visitors back once again. 

Travel Options: Hiking and paddling the Cyclades Islands or taking a Greek bike tour. 

Cuba
After more than 50 years, Cuba is finally reopening to American visitors, and it couldn't come at a better time. The country is approaching a crossroads in which its aging leadership will soon go away, and helping the island nation join the 21st century will be essential to its future. But beyond that, travelers visiting Cuba will help bridge a cultural gap that has formed between that country and the U.S., allowing the once friendly nations to come together once again. But you may want to go now, before things start to change. Once outside economic investors start to arrive on the scene, the quaint Cuban lifestyle could be altered dramatically. 

Travel Options: Discover Cuba's people and culture with Nat Geo

Adventure Travel News: More Ski Resorts Open, Airbnb travel, and More

Trekking in the shadow of Ama Dablam in Nepal.  Kraig Becker

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.