As Nomads, we all seek adventure and exploration. Currently, as you know, our journey is taking us through many sights and adventures within the United States. There are, obviously, a great many places to visit, things to see and locales to explore within the US. However, there are many, many more outside of the United States and they are worth noting. Since we are not traveling abroad at the moment, we have a guest author, Sofia, that is sharing some of her insight. We hope you enjoy her article. Feel free to question and comment as appropriate.
Fancy Adventure? Try These Unspoiled Destinations
Looking for your next adventure destination? The world has many challenges to offer. You can test yourself in some of the most amazing, unspoiled places. After all, when you have your well-deserved breaks, you want to rest somewhere spectacular.
The following five destinations offer the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Check them out:
1. Himachal Pradesh
In the north of India lies the state of Himachal Pradesh – somewhere like no place you’ve ever seen before. The Secret Traveller says it’s like another planet there, full of soaring peaks and deep valleys.
Every time you head round another mountain pass, each view will be more spectacular than the last.
It’s also a mecca for adventure seekers, as you’ve got the opportunity to cycle, whitewater raft, rock climb, trek or ski through the amazing scenery. And the best thing about Himachal Pradesh? There’s barely a soul to share it with.
Photo Credit – https://www.flickr.com/photos/henrikj/6083568968/
2. Myanmar
In recent years, Myanmar has opened its borders to international visitors. And it couldn’t be better news for adventure seekers.
Start your trip off by taking a hot air balloon ride over the arid Bagan plain. Its home to around 2,500 Buddhist monuments (pagodas and monasteries) dating from as far back as the 10th century. It’s an unforgettable experience.
Then you can up the pace a bit with cycling or trekking. The Evening Standard suggest heading to the lush landscape of Burma’s jungle-clad limestone peaks. Here, you’ll frequently stumble upon hidden monasteries and relics of a lost time.
You could try a two-day trek around the stilt villages of Inle Lake, a route popular with backpackers. But for a real adventure, head deep into the Shan highlands or South to Hp-Pan and prepare yourself for some spectacular views.
3. Azores
Never heard of the Azores? It’s not surprising, as this Portuguese archipelago is pretty remote situated 900 miles off the European mainland. The landscape is rugged, and you’ll have to be ready for the ever-changing elements whatever adventure you decide to take on.
And there are lots to choose from. Azores offers some of the best canyoning terrain in the world and you can abseil down waterfalls, jump into natural volcanic pools and slide down water chutes.
If you don’t fancy water-based activities, you can also try your hand at rock climbing and mountain biking. Think of Azores as your own playground.
Photo credit – https://www.flickr.com/photos/katchooo/15331401170/
4. New Zealand
It’s no secret New Zealand is a great destination for adventure. Every year, thousands of travelers head to places like Queenstown to get some thrills by bungee jumping or sky diving.
But one place in particular deserves specific mention that’s Milford Sound. Described as “the trip of a lifetime”, the best way to reach the epicenter (home to the majestic 5,560 ft high Mitre Peak) is to hike on the Milford Track.
It’s a 33-mile route that starts with a 1hr 15min boat ride and then follows an ancient Maori path. The hike itself takes about four days, with around six hours a day walking. Make sure you book ahead though, as only 90 walkers can start the trail every day.
5. Pyrenees
Outdoor enthusiasts love the Pyrenees. Indeed, the scenery is one of the main attractions but a journey through this landscape is about more than that. The locals, the food and the culture keep people coming back time and time again.
The local villages are unspoilt and the Pyrenees are home to UNESCO World Heritage architecture, so there’s plenty to see after a day on horseback trekking through the mountains.
Where did you go for your last adventure? Share your suggestions with us.
Photo credit – https://www.flickr.com/photos/localsurfer/4034278998/in/album-72157622634379298/
About The Author
Hi, I’m Sofia. I simply love traveling, especially when it comes to going off the beaten track – exploring rural locations all over the world. In particular, East Asia and South America are two hot spots of mine, and I plan to spend a month exploring Peru later in the year. That said, I’m not against trying the popular tourist locales and whatever your traveling preferences, try to see as much as you can!
