World ExpeditionsBig Adventures. Small Footprint.https://assets.worldexpeditions.com/BlogOur Flinders Island Walk Named the 13th Great Walk of Australiahttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/5611/our-flinders-island-walk-named-the-13th-great-walk-of-australiaActivities,Trekking/Walking,Destinations,Australia, New Zealand &amp; the Pacific,Australia,NewsSun, 28 Jan 2024 01:04:00 GMT<p><a href="https://greatwalksofaustralia.com.au/" target="_blank">Great Walks of Australia</a>, the premier collection of Australia's greatest multi-day guided walking experiences - done with a dash of eco-luxury comfort - has officially named our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Walking/Flinders-Island-Walking-Adventure-In-Comfort">Flinders Island Walking Adventure - In Comfort</a> as the 13th walk in their exclusive line-up.</p> <p>To say we're thrilled is an understatement. After years of hard work developing a unique walking experience on this mesmerising island featuring spectacular mountain and coastal landscapes, epic views, abundant wildlife and, of course, our pioneering beachside Eco-Comfort Camp, we believe it is truly deserving of the prestigious inclusion. </p> <p>The trip joins the ranks of 12 other incredible walks, like our award-winning <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Trekking-Walking/Classic-Larapinta-Trek-in-Comfort">Classic Larapinta Trek in Comfort</a>, which, so far, has earned five Brolgas in the Northern Territory's official tourism awards.</p> <p>Our six-day guided experience covers 42 kilometres of easy-to-moderate walking exploring what is considered the hidden hiking jewel of Tasmania. With the full support of expert guides, walkers travel with only a daypack, and sleep in exclusive safari-style tents, complete with a see-through roof so you can drift off under a blanket of stars, with the beach almost at your doorstep. </p> <p><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Hiking the stunning Flinders Island coastline | <i>Lachlan Gardiner</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3030478" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-P1259962-3030478-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-P1259962-3030478-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Wildlife on Flinders Island | <i>Lachlan Gardiner</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3030479" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-P1260215-3030479-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-P1260215-3030479-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Hiking on Mt Strzelecki | <i>Lachlan Gardiner</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3030485" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-P1249672-3030485-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-P1249672-3030485-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></p> <blockquote> <p>“We’re so thrilled to be adding the 13th Great Walk of Australia to our collection.”</p> <p>“Rugged, pristine and remote, this gem of a destination is perfect for anyone wanting to get off the beaten track to a unique, undiscovered wild landscape with blockbuster views and feel like you have it nearly all to yourself.”</p> <p>“I have no doubt hikers from around the world are going to be excited about having this special new experience launch and love it as much as our other 12 incredible Great Walks,” </p> <p><strong>- Liz O’Rourke, Great Walks of Australia Executive Officer </strong></p> </blockquote> <div> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Sleep comfortably in our spacious tents on Flinders Island | <i>Lachlan Gardiner</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3030621" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-_1433168-3030621-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-_1433168-3030621-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Our Flinders Island Eco-Comfort Camp is in a secluded setting with beach access | <i>Lachlan Gardiner</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046030" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-DJI_0189-3046030-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-DJI_0189-3046030-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Our clean amenities are sustainably sourced and operated | <i>Lachlan Gardiner</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046031" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-P1150483-3046031-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/Tasmania/LachlanGardiner_WorldExpeditions_FlindersIsland_April2023_HIGHRES-P1150483-3046031-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div> </div>   <h2>What makes this a ‘Great Walk’?  </h2> <p><strong>Spectacular Walking Opportunities and Eco-Comfort Camping </strong></p> <p>Hike past lagoons, woodlands and coastal heaths, skirt around striking granite mountain ranges and summit the dramatic peaks of Mt Killiecrankie and Mt Strzelecki, affording you spectacular views over the entire island.</p> <p>One of the biggest highlights of this walk is our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/flinders-island-eco-comfort-camp">exclusive Eco-comfort Camp</a>, which are big on comforts but small on environmental impact.</p> <p>The extra creature comforts make all the difference on a multi-day walk. Our innovative retreats are full of life's little luxuries that many don't expect in a wild and remote setting like a bed, hot shower and toilets. The camp also has a private beach access, and generously sized safari pod tents with clear roofs so you can enjoy sleeping under a starry Tasmanian night sky.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/7Klsc2ibQ6A?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe><br />  </div> <hr /><strong></strong></div> </div> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1">Ready to discover the newest Great Walk of Australia? <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Flinders+Island">See all of our Flinders Island walking adventures here</a>. <hr /></div> 5611World's Best Mountains Ranges for Trekkinghttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2450/worlds-best-mountains-to-hikeActivities,Trekking/Walking,Destinations,Japan,Nepal,Middle East,Peru,NewsTue, 01 Nov 2022 23:52:00 GMT<p><strong></strong></p> <p>Individual mountains are a genuine attraction to travelers, and typically the more rugged and tall they are the more appealing to the senses. But oftentimes it’s the range the mountain’s in that makes a trekking route standout as a spectacular adventure.</p> <p>Ranges like the Cordillera Blanca in Peru, for example, where there are hundreds of shimmering white peaks piercing the deep blue sky. The sheer number of peaks is simply overwhelming, and treks through ranges like the Blanca have a special feel to them— like walking inside a long cathedral rather than standing at one altar.</p> <p>Here are ten of the best mountain ranges where you can trek and enjoy many peaks, standing shoulder to shoulder and layered upon each other, all at once.</p> <h2>Southern Alps, New Zealand</h2> <p><img alt="Trekker on Buchanan peak with Mount Aspiring behind, walking above Matukituki valley, near Lake Wanaka | <i>Colin Monteath</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1535151" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Mount-Aspiring-National-Park-South-Island-New-Zealand-1535151-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Mount-Aspiring-National-Park-South-Island-New-Zealand-1535151-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>Enjoy stunning vistas day-in and day-out along a <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/New-Zealand/Trekking-Hiking/Best-of-Southern-Alps-Trek" target="_blank">hiking trail</a> not featured in any New Zealand guide book. Shh, it'll be our little secret. From remote lakes and valley systems, secluded ridges to splendour panoramas of Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Aspiring from high vantage points, the Southern Alps is an exciting blend of adventure and wonder.</p> <p>From moderately graded to challenging adventures, and even an <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/New-Zealand/Mountaineering/Alpine-Climbing-Course" target="_blank">alpine climbing course</a>, there are plenty of options to explore the dramatic mountain landscape in <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=southern+alps" target="_blank">New Zealand's South</a>. We promise it will take your breath away.</p> <h2>Karakoram Range, Pakistan</h2> <div> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/1xTrciqkTyg?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div> </div> </div> <p> </p> <p>An eternal favourite with all our experienced trekkers and climbers for it's vast number of tall, dramatic peaks in a relatively close proximity.</p> <p>There’s an area in the Karakorum near K2 that has so many huge peaks (we’re talking 6,000-, 7,000- and 8,000-metre peaks) that it’s called the Throne Room of the Mountain Gods. But it's the sheer number of big mountains across <a href="http://worldexpeditions.com/Pakistan" target="_blank">Pakistan's entire Karakoram mountain range</a> make it one of the great ranges on earth for trekking. </p> <h2>Everest Region, Nepal</h2> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/-7lLOhcWe1k?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div> <p>It's the world’s highest peak and one of our most favourite mountains on earth, so we had to add this beauty to the list. Mount Everest, or Chomolungma as it's known on the Tibetan side, entices more people to visit a destination than perhaps any other mountain on earth. There are many trails that take in the famous peak on the Nepalese side, the most famous being the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal/Trekking-Hiking/Everest-Base-Camp-Kala-Pattar" target="_blank">Everest Base Camp trek</a> via Thyangboche monastery, or you could simply drive to the Tibetan side for for uninterrupted views.</p> <p>View our <a href="http://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal-Regions/Everest" rel="noopener" target="_blank">treks in the Everest region</a> or our <a href="http://worldexpeditions.com/China/Adventure-Touring/High-Road-to-Lhasa" rel="noopener" target="_blank">High Road to Lhasa,</a> which offer a side trip to Everest Base Camp on the Tibetan side.</p> <h2>Sierra Nevada, USA</h2> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="The sun sets on the John Muir Trail in California's High Sierra | <i>Visit California/Michael Lanza</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1534821" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/North-America/USA/CTTC160916101436_015-1534821-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/North-America/USA/CTTC160916101436_015-1534821-###width###px.jpg" /></div> <p>The Sierra Nevada runs for over 640kms north–south in California and is known for its staggering array of granite peaks, domes, and ridges. </p> <p>One of the greatest long distance treks known to humanity is the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=john+muir" target="_blank">John Muir Trail</a>, a 344-kilometre jaunt from the spectacular glacier polished walls of Yosemite Valley to the summit of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States at 4418m. It crosses a number of 4000m passes and wanders beneath high alpine peaks and traverses beautiful meadows and forested river valleys. Due to the remoteness a full-pack is required to undertake the John Muir Trail.</p> <h2>Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa</h2> <p><img alt="Walking in the Drakensberg Ranges on the Drakensberg Traverse trip." class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="628973" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Africa/South-Africa/Drakensberg-Mountains-South-Africa-Walking-628973-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Africa/South-Africa/Drakensberg-Mountains-South-Africa-Walking-628973-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>The north east of <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/South-Africa" target="_blank">South Africa</a> is a region blessed with dramatic mountains and world class game, giving you a unique opportunity to combine both. Even more exciting is when you can experience this highland – home to one of the world's best mountains – on foot. In <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Kruger+National+Park" target="_blank">Kruger National Park</a>, go for a real bush and big game experience or do the strenuous ascent of Amphitheatre.</p> <p>Other hikes in the Drakensberg mountains include the Grotto, Cavern Big 5, Sugarloaf, and remote Cathedral Peak. If you love hiking, the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageNumber=1&pageSize=6&searchKeywords=Drakensberg" target="_blank">Drakensberg</a> is a must add on your bucket list.</p> <h2>Turkestan Mountain Range, Kyrgyzstan</h2> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="The towering sheer rock peaks of Asan (4,230m), Usen (4,378m) and Piramidalnyi (5,509m)" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="628984" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/DSC07921-628984-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/DSC07921-628984-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="The verdant valley home of Dzhalgychy camp" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="628983" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/D2.Dzhalgychy-camp-1-628983-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/D2.Dzhalgychy-camp-1-628983-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Ridge between Dzhalgychy and Orto-Chashma gorges" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="628974" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/D3.Ridge-between-Dzhalgychy-and-Orto-Chashma-gorges-628974-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/D3.Ridge-between-Dzhalgychy-and-Orto-Chashma-gorges-628974-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <p>Central Asia is hot right now and deep in the heart of the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageNumber=1&pageSize=6&searchKeywords=Pamir-Alay" target="_blank">Pamir-Alay mountain system</a> are the towering peaks of Asan (4,230m), Usen (4,378m) and Piramidalnyi (5,509m), set in a backdrop of alpine meadows and picturesque gorges. With its stunning sheer rock formations and the sense of true wilderness, the area is often referred to as Asia's Patagonia - but with much fewer crowds.</p> <p>Local legend has it that an old man who lived in the mountains had twin sons named Asan and Usen who were raised as warriors and later joined the military. Both were sent to war but neither returned, leaving their father stricken with grief. The father raised his arms to the sky and cried, "Oh Allah, you gave their lives, you then took them away. Return my sons to me and take my life instead." Allah, hearing his prayer, cracked open the ground and towering peaks rose toward the sky. It is believed by locals that the two bastions, standing alongside one another at the beginning of Karavshin River are the twin sons with the snowy white peak of Piramidalnyi in the background is believed to their father watching over his sons for eternity.</p> <p>You can experience the best of the Turkestan ranges on our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Kyrgyzstan/Trekking-Hiking/Ak-Suu-Turkestan-Range-Trek" target="_blank">Ak-Suu trek</a> which takes you along stunning gorges, through alpine meadows and to the remote and impressive peaks.</p> <h2>Vilcabamba Mountain Range, Peru</h2> <p><img alt="A group of trekkers near Salcantay | <i>Mike Shrimpton</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="628971" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/South-America/Peru/Trekkers-Salcantay-628971-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/South-America/Peru/Trekkers-Salcantay-628971-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>The great <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Vilcabamba" target="_blank">Vilcabamba Mountain Range</a> is the last stronghold of the Inca Empire. Here is where you can find the unique and spectacular 'lost' ruins of <a href="http://worldexpeditions.com/Peru/Trekking-Hiking/Inca-Rivers-Trek-Choquequirao-to-Machu-Picchu?utm_source=Best%20Mountains%20post&utm_medium=hyperlink&utm_campaign=WEAU%20Blog&utm_content=Choquequirao" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Choquequirao</a>. When you trek over mountain passes, you will have stunning views of the Pumasillo, Humantay, and <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageNumber=1&pageSize=6&searchKeywords=Salcantay" target="_blank">Salcantay</a> (the ranges’ highest) peaks. Enjoy ancient cloud forest, abundant wildflowers and of course the famous ruins of <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Machu-Picchu-Inca-Trail" target="_blank">Machu Picchu</a>. It's offers an extraordinary alternative to the much busier <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Peru/Trekking-Hiking/Classic-Inca-Trail" target="_blank">Inca Trail</a> and is one of the most best and most beautiful mountain ranges to hike in.</p> <h2>Patagonian Andes - Argentina & Chile</h2> <div> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="A trek in Patagonia will replenish the soul | <i>Sue Badyari</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1534822" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/South-America/Patagonia/Torres-Del-Paine-National-Park-Patagonia-1534822-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/South-America/Patagonia/Torres-Del-Paine-National-Park-Patagonia-1534822-###width###px.jpg" /></div> </div> <p>A climber once described the mountains of Patagonia as something out of a nightmare. Wild spires of granite and ice bursting thousands of metres into the sky. </p> <p>Indeed, the region’s sharp granite towers are so steep they literally look like knives placed in a mug with their blades pointing up. </p> <p>Yep, they're that exciting to look at. Experience them in both Argentina and Chile on <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Patagonia">one of our Patagonia treks</a>.</p> <h2>West MacDonnell Ranges, Australia</h2> <p>They aren't the biggest, but they are one of the world's oldest. Tjoritja West MacDonnell National Park stretches for 161 kilometres west of Alice Springs and is home to the famous 223km Larapinta Trail, which begins at the Old Telegraph Station near Alice Springs and ends at Mt Sonder, the NT's third highest peak.</p> <p>The ancient landscape, sculptured over time by climatic change and made famous by the art of Western Arrernte artist Albert Namatjira is on display in the West MacDonnell Ranges. You can find relics of a bygone tropical forest at many of the cool scenic gorges that act as a refuge for an assortment of plants and animals.</p> <p>There are many gaps, gorges, rivers, chasms and pits across the West MacDonnell Ranges suitable for hiking, experience them on a <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=larapinta" target="_blank">Larapinta walk.</a></p> <h2>Atlas Mountains, Morocco</h2> <p>The Atlas Mountains in North Africa stretch across the top of Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia and are renowned for their colours—red and orange rocks and lush greenery—as well as their traditional Berber population. This is a big mountain range, and the possibilities for exploration are endless. Join us in exploring these peaks, and its people, in one of our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Morocco">Moroccan adventures</a>.</p> <hr /> <p><strong>Feeling inspired? Browse our complete <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.worldexpeditions.com/Trekking-Exploratory?utm_source=Best%20Mountains%20post&utm_medium=hyperlink&utm_campaign=WEAU%20Blog&utm_content=Trekking_exploratory" rel="noopener" target="_blank">overview of trekking holidays</a></span> to some of the world's best mountain peaks or <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.worldexpeditions.com/contact-us?utm_source=Best%20Mountains%20post&utm_medium=hyperlink&utm_campaign=WEAU%20Blog&utm_content=Contact_Us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">get in touch with one of our travel experts around the world</a></span> for more information and advice.</strong></p> <p><em>Which mountain is still on your bucket list to explore?</em></p> 2450World Expeditions Foundation donates an extra $17.4K to local ground crewhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/5095/world-expeditions-foundation-donates-extra-15k-for-local-ground-crewNews,Thoughtful TravelWed, 15 Jun 2022 03:27:38 GMT<p><span style="color:#949e17;"></span>World Expeditions’ adventure community have done it again with an additional $17,400 (AUD) set to be distributed to local partners in Myanmar, Mongolia, Ethiopia, India and Sri Lanka.</p> <p>As part of World Expeditions' continued support for communities affected by the pandemic, the funds were raised thanks to its generous supporters who rallied behind the ‘<a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/grants-4-ground-staff-appeal" target="_blank">Grants4Ground Staff’</a> and ‘<a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/lend-a-hand-appeal-update" target="_blank">Lend A Hand</a>’ campaigns. Our partners in each country identify the beneficiaries considering who was most impacted by the global pandemic that bought tourism to a stand still.</p> <p>Tim Macartney-Snape, director of the World Expeditions Foundation, extends his thanks: “A massive thank you to all the donors and our loyal community of travellers who backed these campaigns."</p> <blockquote> <p><strong><span style="color:#999999;">The USD$100 grants received by ground staff are a helpful safety net, especially for recipients in areas where they are solely dependent on income from travel and tourism.</span></strong></p> </blockquote> <p><strong>BREAKDOWN OF DISTRUBUTION</strong></p> <ul> <li>Myanmar >> USD50 grants to 8 staff and USD100 grants to 16 staff made up of tuktuk drivers, home stay providers, boat drivers, kitchen staff, horse cart drivers</li> <li>Mongolia >>USD100 grants to 20 staff made up of chefs, guides, bus drivers, bike mechanics, booking manager and logistics manager</li> <li>Ethiopia >> USD100 grants to 10 guides</li> <li>India >> USD150 grants to 15 staff made up of guides, kitchen staff and horseman</li> <li>Sri Lanka >> USD100 to 6 guides and office staff</li> </ul> <p>A further $3500 is earmarked for ground crew in Pakistan, to be distributed shortly.<br />  <br /> <strong>SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES AFFECTED BY THE PANDEMIC</strong></p> <p>First launched in 2020, these campaigns have raised close to $100,000 (AUD) under its not-for-profit entity, World Expeditions Foundation, greatly aiding local ground staff and their families who are still struggling in the current climate. </p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Myanmar staff receive their donations" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1476581" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/Kyukme---U-San-Hla-Family-1476581-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/Kyukme---U-San-Hla-Family-1476581-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Mongolian team receive their donations" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1476582" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/GGE-photo-to-WE-1476582-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/GGE-photo-to-WE-1476582-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Myanmar staff receive their donations" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1476583" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/Inle---Shar-Htet-Aung-1476583-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/Inle---Shar-Htet-Aung-1476583-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Myanmar staff receive their donations" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1476584" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/Inle---Kyaw-Aye-1476584-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/Inle---Kyaw-Aye-1476584-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Myanmar staff receive their donations" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1476585" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/Inle---Sai-Khin-Maung-Htoo-1476585-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/Inle---Sai-Khin-Maung-Htoo-1476585-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <p>World Expeditions and its travellers continue to be a force in supporting communities in delivering local employment, friendship, and fostering cultural tolerance, as highlighted in its <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel" target="_blank">Thoughtful Travel Charter</a>. </p> <p>Read on below to see how the funds will support its recipients and how you can still help. </p> <h2>Who will the funds support? </h2> <p>For destinations like Myanmar, where our past travellers have had some incredible experiences, the pause on travel remains steadfast due to ongoing upheavals making trips inoperable. In areas such as <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Sri-Lanka" target="_blank">Sri Lanka</a>, our longstanding operator has been experiencing hardships due to political unrest and these funds will help aid the team on the ground. </p> <p>A traveller favourite, <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/mongolia" target="_blank">Mongolia</a>, has seen a very slow uptake since its borders reopened, with the donations set to greatly help the ground staff, especially in the remote areas we operate in.</p> <p>Among the crippling factors are the soaring inflation prices and the shy intake of overseas travellers heading to certain destinations such as Pakistan’s remote <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/pakistan" target="_blank">Karakoram ranges</a> and the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Indian-Regions/Indian-Himalaya" target="_blank">Indian Himalaya</a>, despite borders being open. This has therefore left guides, porters and cooking staff out of work. </p> <p>As their hardships ensue, coupled with the impacts of Covid, the generosity of supporters will see these additional funds go far to help these communities affected. </p> <p>David Thomas, one of our Mt Kilimanjaro porters sent a handwritten thank-you note to the World Expeditions team and donors from the initial ‘Lend A Hand’ Appeal: </p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#999999;"><strong>From the bottom of our heart we say thank you very much. Know that it’s really touched [and] blessed our family… This is not small, it for us [is a] blessing and more than a donation to us.</strong></span></p> </blockquote> <p>African guide, Kessy, also sent his thanks writing: “Most of my fellow workers were in very [a] bad situation in the pandemic, so what we got today from you, World Expeditions and the donors, is more than we expected. So we would like to thank each and everyone who contributed for us.” </p> <h2>Want to help? </h2> <p>As the world gradually opens, it's encouraging to see so many of our popular international destinations welcoming visitors again. However, it will still be a while before we see numbers return to pre-pandemic times. </p> <p>To continue to support our cause, you can: </p> <h4><span style="color:#949e17;">→ <a href="https://grants4groundstaff.gofundraise.com.au/payments/donate/beneficiary/1424" target="_blank">Make a donation</a></span></h4> <p>If you would like to assist World Expeditions’ ground crew who are still affected by the pandemic, you can make a donation to the Grants4Ground Staff campaign. 100 per cent of the funds will reach to the intended donors, with no admin fees withheld. </p> <p><img alt="Myanmar staff receive their donations" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1476580" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/Kyukme---Ko-Palaung_s-father-1476580-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/WE-Company-_-Staff/World-Expeditions-Foundation/Kyukme---Ko-Palaung_s-father-1476580-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://grants4groundstaff.gofundraise.com.au/payments/donate/beneficiary/1424" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Donate now <em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h4><span style="color:#949e17;">→ <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Guided-Treks-Walks/Climb-Kozi-4-Ground-Staff" target="_blank">Join the World Expeditions Foundation’s ‘Climb for Kozi’ Charity Challenge</a> </span></h4> <p>Trek in solidarity to Australia’s highest mountain in support of the ground crew in need. You’ll help raise funds in the process, making your adventure go towards a worthy cause.</p> <p><img alt="All smiles on the hike to Mt Kosciuszko | <i>Zuzanna Kania</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1282404" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/NSW/Hiking-in-Kosciuszko-National-Park---group-shot-1282404-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/NSW/Hiking-in-Kosciuszko-National-Park---group-shot-1282404-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/50k-raised-from-mount-kosciuszko-charity-challenge" target="_blank">Read about the 2022 climb</a> where Australian mountaineering royalty, Tim Macartney-Snape joined supporters on the challenging trek.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Guided-Treks-Walks/Climb-Kozi-4-Ground-Staff" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View Charity Challenge <em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h4><span style="color:#949e17;">→ <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search" target="_blank">Jump on an adventure holiday</a> </span></h4> <p>One of the best ways to support our local crew is to join an adventure. Partnering with local operators and hiring local guides and leaders, World Expeditions sees its traveller’s dollars investing in these local economies. </p> <p><img alt="Clients enjoying a lunch in Nepal | <i>Lachlan Gardiner</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1282406" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/LachlanGardiner_WestNepal_2019_DSLR01_HIGHRES-1941-1282406-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/LachlanGardiner_WestNepal_2019_DSLR01_HIGHRES-1941-1282406-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>It’s a fantastic way to give back to the communities you visit and better spread out the impacts of tourism on the destination.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Find your adventure <em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <p><em>Published 15 June 2022.</em></p> 5095Top 5 Springtime Cultural Festivalshttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2397/cultural-festivals-in-worldActivities,Cultural Journeys,Laos,Mongolia,Bhutan,Tibet,India,Peru,NewsFri, 13 May 2022 06:29:00 GMT<p>The spring season sees a lot of cultural festivals being celebrated around the world. We collected the most colourful ones that are a privilege to take part in at least once in your life. </p> <p>Travel to Paro in Bhutan for the Paro Tshechu festival or reach higher spheres during the Hemis festival in Ladakh. Then there are the Buddhist Pi Mai (New Year) in Laos; Mongolia’s annual sporting event, Naadam Festival; and Cusco’s vibrant Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun), all of which are colourful celebrations that are attended by locals and visitors alike.</p> <h3>Inti Raymi in Peru</h3> <p><strong>What is it?</strong> The Festival of the Sun</p> <p><img alt="Inti Raymi celebrations | <i>Nigel Leadbitter</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241343" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/South-America/Peru/Celebrations-Inti-Raymi-Festival-1241343-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/South-America/Peru/Celebrations-Inti-Raymi-Festival-1241343-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>The event traditionally involved the sacrifice of an animal to ensure healthy crops. The sacrifice was banned by the Spaniards, and today the festival involves a procession through the streets with music, prayers, dancing, and scattered flowers. </p> <p>The Inti Raymi Festival or "sun festival" is a religious ceremony that dates back 500 years to the Incan Empire’s heyday. The festival honours one of the most venerated gods in the Inca Empire: Inti. </p> <p>Women with brooms sweep away the evil spirits plus you will see priests and participants dressed as snakes, condors and pumas. It’s the second largest festival in South America with hundreds of thousands of people travelling to Cusco to celebrate the weeklong event.</p> <p><img alt="Local enjoying Inti Raymi Festival in the streets of Cusco | <i>Heike Krumm</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241344" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/South-America/Peru/Cusco_-Peru-1241344-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/South-America/Peru/Cusco_-Peru-1241344-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p><strong>When is it? </strong>It is celebrated on the shortest day of the year, also known as the Winter Solstice, which is generally around June. </p> <p><strong>Want to join?</strong> Time your <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Peru" target="_blank">visit to Peru</a> around June when the festival is set to occur. It's a great way to add more cultural elements while incorporating the magnificent sights of places like <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Machu-Picchu-Inca-Trail" target="_blank">Machu Picchu</a>.</p> <h3>Hemis Festival in India</h3> <p><strong>What is it?</strong> Celebrating the Birth of Guru Rinpoche (or Lord Padmasambhava)</p> <p><img alt="Gathered men at the festival at Hemis, Ladakh | <i>Adam Mussolum</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241336" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/Gathered-men-1241336-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/Gathered-men-1241336-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>Observed at the Hemis Monastery, the festival is situated in a gorge in the north-Indian province of Ladakh and is a colourful celebration in honour of Lord Padmasambhava. </p> <p>The festival is famous for the masked dances that represent the good prevailing over evil and is performed by <em>gompas</em> that follow tantric traditions. </p> <p>The festival is said to originate in the 8<sup>th</sup> Century and other activities include the offering of food, playing traditional music (think cymbals, trumpets and drums), and performing spiritual ceremonies. Joining the festival is believed to give spiritual strength and good health.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Colourful costumes at the Hemis Festival | <i>Brad Atwal</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241337" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/IMG_3620-1241337-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/IMG_3620-1241337-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Several hundred Ladakhi villagers from throughout the Indus Valley attend the Hemis festival. | <i>Adam Mussolum</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241338" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/Gathering-at-Hemis-Festival-1241338-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/Gathering-at-Hemis-Festival-1241338-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Hemis Festival | <i>Adam Mussolum</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241339" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/Hemis-Festival-1241339-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/Hemis-Festival-1241339-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="The traditions of the two-day festival at Hemis, Ladakh | <i>Adam Mussolum</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241340" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/Festival-at-Hemis-1241340-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/Festival-at-Hemis-1241340-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Traditional and elaborate masked dancer at the Hemis Festival | <i>Adam Mussolum</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241341" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/Indian-Himalaya-Ladakh-Markha-Valley-1241341-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Indian-Himalaya/Indian-Himalaya-Ladakh-Markha-Valley-1241341-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <p><strong>When is it?</strong> The Hemis Festival is celebrated annually in the month of June or July.</p> <p><strong>Want to join?</strong> You can visit the beautiful <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Indian-Regions/Ladakh" target="_blank">Indian Himalayan region of Ladakh</a> in June or July. We often offer special itineraries centred around the festival.</p> <h3>Naadam Festival in Mongolia</h3> <p><strong>What is it?</strong> It is locally known as the 'Three Games of Men Festival'</p> <p><img alt="Spectators looking on during the Naadam festivities" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241345" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/outdoor-competition-arrow-sports-jockey-bow-363391-pxhere.com-1241345-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/outdoor-competition-arrow-sports-jockey-bow-363391-pxhere.com-1241345-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>The festival is an ancient cultural spectacle that combines colourful costumes and performances with an exciting tournament of three traditional sports: archery, wrestling and bareback horse riding. </p> <p>Travel to Chandman village to experience the festival in a setting of nomadic life. In the capital of Ulaanbaatar, visitors are presented with an incredible opportunity to experience the culture and people of this amazing land.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Locals in the Naadam Festival opening ceremony | <i>Fiona Windon</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241350" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/Trans-Siberian-Railway-1241350-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/Trans-Siberian-Railway-1241350-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Wrestling, archery and horse riding are the three competitions of Naadam Festival" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241348" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/outdoor-running-soccer-mountain-bike-race-competition-443270-pxhere.com-1241348-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/outdoor-running-soccer-mountain-bike-race-competition-443270-pxhere.com-1241348-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Spectators looking on during a provincial Naadam archery competition" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241349" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/outdoor-sport-camel-arrow-sports-mongolia-239727-pxhere.com-1241349-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/outdoor-sport-camel-arrow-sports-mongolia-239727-pxhere.com-1241349-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Naadam Festival opening ceremony | <i>Fiona Windon</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241351" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/Trans-Siberian-Railway-1241351-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/Trans-Siberian-Railway-1241351-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Wrestlers at the Naadam Festival in Mongolia | <i>Caroline Mongrain</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241352" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/Naadam-Festival-Mongolia-1241352-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/Naadam-Festival-Mongolia-1241352-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Locals at Naadam Festival | <i>Caroline Mongrain</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241353" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/Naadam-Festival-Mongolia-1241353-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/Naadam-Festival-Mongolia-1241353-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Naadam Festival in the Mongolian steppe | <i>Caroline Mongrain</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241354" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/Naadam-Festival-Mongolia-1241354-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Mongolia/Naadam-Festival-Mongolia-1241354-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <p><strong>When is it?</strong> This is the biggest festival of the year in Mongolia and is held throughout the country in midsummer from July 11-15. </p> <p><strong>Want to join?</strong> You have several opportunities to visit the Naadam Festival when travelling on our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Mongolia" target="_blank">Mongolia trips</a> in early July. <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Contact-Us" target="_blank">Get in touch with our team</a> for ideas on the best trips that include the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=naadam" target="_blank">Naadam Festival.</a> </p> <h3>Pi Mai in Laos</h3> <p><strong>What is it?</strong> Buddhist New Year</p> <p><img alt="Photographer capturing the History and art at a temple in Luang Prabang | <i>Peter Walton</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241347" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Laos/Photographer-Luang-Prabang-1241347-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Laos/Photographer-Luang-Prabang-1241347-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>Like its neighbouring countries of Cambodia, Thailand and Myanmar, celebrations for the new Buddhist year are important for locals. </p> <p>Expect to be celebrating alongside them towards the last days of the festival. Usually, days at the start of the festival are set aside to clean homes and temples and to spend with family. A traditional ceremony is for women to pour on men a cup of perfumed water with flowers. </p> <p>Today, this transformed into a carnivalesque water festival in places like Luang Prabang.</p> <p><strong>When is it?</strong> Celebrations are from 13 or 14 April to 15 or 16 April.</p> <p><strong>Want to join?</strong> Book an April departure to join in on the festivities in <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Luang+Prabang" target="_blank">Luang Prabang</a>.</p> <h3>Paro Tshechu in Bhutan</h3> <p><strong>What is it?</strong> The Festival of Paro</p> <p><img alt="The magnificent colours of Tatksang Monastery in Bhutan | <i>Liz Light</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="1241342" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Bhutan/Bhutan-Paro-Culture-Religion-Monastery-Buddhism-1241342-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Bhutan/Bhutan-Paro-Culture-Religion-Monastery-Buddhism-1241342-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>A tshechu is a religious and cultural festival in Bhutan and, according to the Lunar Tibetan calendar, throughout the year many are held. </p> <p>One of the most popular ones is in Paro valley: Paro Tshechu. Experience the living Bhutanese culture when the local people celebrate Guru Rimpoche who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan. </p> <p>Festivities include masked dances, drums, trumpets, ceremonies and people wearing their beautiful, colourful costumes. One of the highlights of the festival is the unfolding of the thangka, named ‘thnongdroel’ in Bhutan.</p> <p><strong>When is it? </strong>The Paro Tshechu Festival is generally held in March or April.</p> <p><strong>Want to join?</strong> Tie in an exploration of Bhutan with a <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=paro" target="_blank">Paro Valley</a> visit. We incorporate various <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?categories=BTN%2CadventureTouring" target="_blank">cultural journeys into our Bhutan itineraries</a>.</p> 2397Grants 4 Ground Staff Appeal – how you can helphttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3757/grants-4-ground-staff-appealActivities,Adventure Travel,Community,Charity Challenges,Guides and staff,Destinations,Australia, New Zealand &amp; the Pacific,Australia,Himalaya,Nepal,South America,Peru,News,Thoughtful TravelSun, 01 Aug 2021 03:07:00 GMT<p><big><strong> Our friends in Nepal and Peru – the guides, porters and administration staff that were the backbone of your last World Expeditions adventure – are in need.</strong></big></p> <p>In 2020, the World Expeditions Foundations' <em>Lend A Hand Appeal</em> distributed over 600 food and hygiene care packages and the 2022 appeal brought the total fundraising tally to AUD$100,000, furthering efforts to provide support to the ground staff in need.</p> <p>It is reassuring to see how far these funds go in helping our friends who are doing it tough, but our ground crew still need our help.</p> <p>While the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines is giving hope to many people affected by the pandemic, the devastating impact of COVID-19 will still be felt for a long time for those who are dependent on income from travel and tourism living in countries that will not see the vaccine for some time.</p> <p>We are committed to continuing to send care packages to our team in need in Nepal and Peru, but we need your help. Join us on a <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Walking-Guided/Climb-Kozi-4-Ground-Staff" target="_blank">Charity Challenge to climb Australia's highest mountain</a> or please donate to the World Expeditions Foundation's <a href="https://grants4groundstaff.gofundraise.com.au/" target="_blank">Grants 4 Ground Staff Appeal</a> to continue our efforts to give back to the people behind the scenes of your adventure travel holiday in their time of need.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://grants4groundstaff.gofundraise.com.au/payments/donate/beneficiary/1424" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Make a donation <em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#666666;"><strong>Help support the wonderful individuals who have given us so much joy in our travels, many of whom will remain without income for some time due to minimal government support and subsidies.</strong></span></p> </blockquote> <h1>Ways you can support our appeal:</h1> <h4><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong>JOIN OUR 'CLIMB KOZI 4 GROUND STAFF' CHARITY CHALLENGE</strong></span></h4> <div><img alt=" " class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="842395" dynamiccroppedimage="1" flexibleaspectratio="16x9" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/HUMA-Challenge/Mt-Kosciuszko/Climbing-Mount-Kosciuszko-842395-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/HUMA-Challenge/Mt-Kosciuszko/Climbing-Mount-Kosciuszko-842395-###width###px.jpg" /></div> <p><br /> Climb to the roof of Australia for this amazing cause! Climb one of the original Seven Summits, and Australia's highest mountain at 2228 metres, to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, with family and friends and raise funds to support our international ground staff.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Walking-Guided/Climb-Kozi-4-Ground-Staff" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Join the Charity Challenge<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h4><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong>MAKE A DIRECT DONATION TO THE APPEAL</strong></span></strong></span></h4> <div><img alt=" " class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="842394" dynamiccroppedimage="1" flexibleaspectratio="16x9" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/LachlanGardiner_WestNepal_2019_DSLR01_HIGHRES-0758-842394-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/LachlanGardiner_WestNepal_2019_DSLR01_HIGHRES-0758-842394-###width###px.jpg" /></div> <p><br /> Help make a difference by donating to the Grants 4 Ground Staff Appeal. 100% of funds raised will be equally distributed to the recipients intended with no administration fees withheld. Donations over $2 made by Australian residents will receive a tax-deductible receipt.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://grants4groundstaff.gofundraise.com.au/payments/donate/beneficiary/1424" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Make a donation <em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h4><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong>FUNDRAISE LOCALLY</strong></span></strong></span></h4> <div><img alt="Hiker interacting with Quechua child | <i>Donna Lawrence</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="866732" dynamiccroppedimage="1" flexibleaspectratio="16x9" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/South-America/Peru/Huilloc-Village_-Peru-866732-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/South-America/Peru/Huilloc-Village_-Peru-866732-###width###px.jpg" /></div> <p><br /> If you can't join our 'Climb Kozi 4 Ground Staff', you can still help fundraise locally to support this appeal. Simply <a href="https://grants4groundstaff.gofundraise.com.au/pages/create" target="_blank">create a fundraising page</a> as an individual or as a team to get started! There are a number of ways to raise funds, check out this <a href="https://www.humachallenge.com/Blog/A-Z-of-Fundraising">guide</a> for some ideas.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://grants4groundstaff.gofundraise.com.au/pages/create" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Start fundraising<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>Who will your donations support?</h2> <p>In line with the mandate of the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/World-Expeditions-Foundation" target="_blank">World Expeditions Foundation</a>, 100% of donations from the appeal will be dispersed to our local partners and their employees in Nepal and Peru. These individuals include the field and office team – the guides, porters, drivers, cooks and administration staff.</p> <p>More than 600 food and hygiene care packages were distributed in 2020 from our <a href="http://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/lend-a-hand-appeal-update" target="_blank">Lend A Hand Appeal</a>, but the ground crew still need assistance.</p> <p>Your support will make a tangible difference as these communities receive little or no government support and coupled with the dire economic predicament are in need of assistance.</p> <p><em>Donations over $2 made by Australian residents will receive a tax-deductible receipt.</em></p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://grants4groundstaff.gofundraise.com.au/payments/donate/beneficiary/1424" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Make a donation<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <p><em></em></p> <h2>2022 Grants 4 Ground Staff Appeal Update</h2> <p>As of February 2022, more than AUD$50,000 was fundraised to provide further payments to staff in need in Nepal and Peru. <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/50k-raised-from-mount-kosciuszko-charity-challenge" target="_blank">Check out the photos and recap from the successful Kosciuszko charity climb.</a></p> <p>We are committed to continuing to send care packages to our teams and we encourage you to support our efforts by <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Walking-Guided/Climb-Kozi-4-Ground-Staff" target="_blank">hiking Australia’s tallest mountain, Mount Kosciuszko</a> in 2023, to raise much-needed funds for our Grants 4 Ground Staff appeal.</p> <h2>2021 Appeal Update</h2> <p>As of May 2021, close to $12K has been raised for our appeal and USD$10K has been distributed between 100 ground staff in Nepal and Peru during the week of 31 May 2021. A massive thank you to those who have generously donated! Where every dollar counts and no administration fees are withheld to raise and allocate the funds, 100% of donations go directly to supporting the ground crew and their families in this great time of need.</p> <h2>2020 Lend A Hand Appeal</h2> <p>Our Lend a Hand appeal in 2020 raised over AUD$41,100 to help our valuable ground crew (read how the World Expeditions Foundation distributed these funds <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/lend-a-hand-appeal-update" target="_blank">here</a>).</p> <p><em><br /> Published 26 April 2020. Last updated 10 February 2022.</em></p> <hr />3757Fundraising heroes helping Nepal’s Upper Mustang impacted by COVIDhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3786/fundraising-heroes-helping-nepals-upper-mustang-hit-by-covidCommunity,Charity Challenges,Guides and staff,Destinations,Himalaya,Nepal,News,Thoughtful TravelMon, 31 May 2021 03:34:13 GMT<p><strong>Over $21,000 has been raised so far for the Upper Mustang region of Nepal impacted by COVID. Read about the unsung heroes, including Margie Thomas – long-time Nepal supporter and World Expeditions guide, who are supporting the communities affected by the pandemic.</strong></p> <p>A prolonged absence of work, children withdrawn from school out of fear for their safety, the difficulty of accessing medical supplies as well as limited facilities and staff to address the outbreak of COVID. Many Nepalese people have been mute spectators to the challenges the pandemic has unapologetically swept into their communities. With a second wave storming across Nepal, COVID has now reached the upper highland districts of <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/trekking-long-forbidden-kingdom-of-mustang" target="_blank">Mustang</a>.</p> <p>Despite its isolation, COVID has unfortunately found its way to the borderlands of Tibet and has reached the Chosar village, situated at 3,900 metres above sea level, and the capital of Lo Manthang. Chosar is one of the most isolated villages in Nepal and is more than a week's trek from the small Jomsom airstrip or two hours by horse from the Tibetan border.</p> <p><img alt="View of Lo Manthang from the pass above the medieval walled city. | <i>Margie Thomas</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="880239" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Upper-Mustang-880239-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Upper-Mustang-880239-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>According to Tikaram Bhandari, the Chief of the District Health Office <a href="https://www.msn.com/en-xl/asia/nepal/covid-19-reported-above-3900-meters-in-mustang-and-3500-meters-in-manang/ar-AAKc1SO" target="_blank">stated</a>: 'Due to the locals residing in Kathmandu and Pokhara, the district saw a moderate flow of traffic during the rise of the second wave of COVID-19.'</p> <p>'Also, the flow of workers in various construction projects of roads and bridges in the district have contributed to the spread of the virus to the highlands of the districts.'</p> <p>Indian pilgrims visiting sacred sites at Muktinath have also unwittingly spread COVID.</p> <p>According to our sources, there are currently 10 confirmed cases in Upper Mustang as of 28 May 2021, with seven cases in Chosar and three in Lo Manthang.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Chosar villagers" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="880103" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Chosar-villagers---medium-res-880103-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Chosar-villagers---medium-res-880103-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Margie Thomas with Chosar villagers" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="880104" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Margie-Thomas-with-Chosar-villagers---medium-res-880104-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Margie-Thomas-with-Chosar-villagers---medium-res-880104-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Chosar women in rarely seen traditional dress worn at festival times" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="880107" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Upper-Mustang-880107-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Upper-Mustang-880107-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div> <h3>The challenge</h3> <p>The majority of the villages in the area, including Chosar, Ghami, Tsarang and Lo Manthang, are without hospitals, with Chosar village (that has a total population of around 620) also without any electricity.</p> <p><img alt="View of the Kali Gandaki river from Kagbeni, gateway to Upper Mustang. | <i>Margie Thomas</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="880238" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Upper-Mustang-880238-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Upper-Mustang-880238-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>At every ward of respective rural municipalities, there is only one very basic health post: a room with a few beds to isolate in and no medical supplies for those needing treatment. Consequently, with no easy access to medical oxygen and adequate facilities, this means patients need to be sent to Pokhara for further treatment.</p> <h3>Fundraising heroes</h3> <p>Veteran trekker, <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3271/margie-thomas-nepal-upper-mustang-trek" target="_blank">Margie Thomas</a> has long held a special relationship with the people in <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal/Trekking-Hiking/Upper-Mustang-Hidden-Tibetan-Kingdom-Pony-Trek" target="_blank">Upper Mustang</a>, having led tours in this secluded region of Nepal for many years.</p> <p><img alt="Margie Thomas with students at Lekshey Choeling Nunnery in Tsarang, Upper Mustang | <i>Walter Wagner</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="880229" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/LEKSHEY-CHOELING-NUNNERY-IN-TSARANG_-UPPER-MUSTANG-880229-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/LEKSHEY-CHOELING-NUNNERY-IN-TSARANG_-UPPER-MUSTANG-880229-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>Following advice from local friends in Chosar, Margie liaised with her long-time friend, Tsewang Bista, who is a member of the Mustang Royal family and his wife, Kesang Dika Bista, who is a doctor. They advised that oxygen concentrators and oximeters (which measure blood oxygen saturation) would help in the villages of Chosar, Ghami, Tsarang and Lo Manthang. These units are mobile, can run off a generator and can be taken to the sick if needed – perfect for the inaccessible region.</p> <p>The equipment will help restrict the movement of people to prevent the spread of infection and avoid the sick from having to travel far and in difficult terrain to seek treatment.</p> <p>Margie counts the many people in Upper Mustang as her good friends and responded to their urgent call for help by <a href="https://makingadifference.gofundraise.com.au/page/Margie-11348079" target="_blank">setting up a fundraising page</a> in mid-May 2021, reaching out to her network – many of whom are her past travel companions.</p> <p>“I did a separate call out to fund this and the money rolled in immediately. I expect more over the next few days, so we enough to cover the immediate costs. We’re over the $21,000 mark now in terms of fundraising,” Margie said.</p> <p>With Nepal in lockdown, incredibly, Tsewang still managed to swiftly and efficiently source the much-needed equipment from the initial round of donations and arrange its transportation to where it is desperately needed.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Tsewang Bista helped sourced oxygen concentrators and oximeters for Upper Mustang villagers" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="880113" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Tsewang-Bista-with-oxygen-concentrators-and-oximeters-for-Upper-Mustang-villagers-880113-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Tsewang-Bista-with-oxygen-concentrators-and-oximeters-for-Upper-Mustang-villagers-880113-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Transporting oxygen concentrators from charity donors to villagers in Upper Mustang" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="880111" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Upper-Mustang-fundraiser-oxygen-concentrators-transportation-low-res-880111-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Upper-Mustang-fundraiser-oxygen-concentrators-transportation-low-res-880111-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Donations in action – oxygen concentrators being transported to the villages in Upper Mustang " class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="880112" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Transporting-oxygen-concentrators-from-charity-donors-to-villagers-in-Upper-Mustang-880112-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Transporting-oxygen-concentrators-from-charity-donors-to-villagers-in-Upper-Mustang-880112-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <div class="row"> <div class="col-sm-6 dynamicContentWrapper" switchsource="content1"><br /> <br /> The oxygen concentrators and oximeters will save lives and also provide psychological comfort to the local villagers. They now know they’re not alone in fighting this virus and have the support of donors worldwide.<br /> <br /> “Tsewang has pulled several amazing rabbits out of a rather large hat to perform miracles in getting hold of four units and four oximeters,” Margie said.<br /> <br /> "With few medical supplies and support, even without COVID, these machines will be very useful in this remote environment.”</div> <div class="col-sm-6 dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Tsewang Bista's winning smile" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="880236" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Tsewang-Bista---member-of-the-Mustang-Royal-family-880236-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Tsewang-Bista---member-of-the-Mustang-Royal-family-880236-###width###px.jpg" /></div> </div>   <p>The <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/World-Expeditions-Foundation" target="_blank">World Expeditions Foundation</a>, the not for profit arm of World Expeditions, administered the donation where all proceeds Margie fundraised for this initiative goes directly to purchasing and distributing these much-needed medical supplies as well as supporting the education of local children in these remote areas. Donations are tax-deductible.</p> <p>“A big hug to the World Expeditions Foundation which makes this possible without taking a cut for admin.”</p> <p>All of us at World Expeditions love hearing stories about how travel can help the world and this is a great example of this happening.</p> <p>“It would be great to encourage others to do something similar for a place close to their hearts.”</p> <p><big><a href="http://makingadifference.gofundraise.com.au/page/Margie-11348079" target="_blank"><strong>Support Margie's cause and make a donation today ></strong></a></big></p> <h4>UPDATE: Special thanks from the cultural King of Upper Mustang</h4> <p>With the outpouring of support and timely distribution of funds, Jigme Singhi Palbar Bista, the President of Lo Gyalpo Jigme Foundation and the cultural King of Upper Mustang, sang praise to Margie for her fundraising efforts. The letter reads:</p> <blockquote> <p><em>Dear Margie la,</em></p> <p><em>On behalf of our foundation and people of Mustang, I want to send you my deepest gratitude for your timely and essential contribution during the COVID pandemic. Your support in providing life-saving oxygen concentrators, oximeters, hospital beds, generator, antigen test kits, and masks have significantly helped in controlling the spread of the virus in upper Mustang.</em></p> <p><em>As you are aware, this year the coronavirus has taken two lives in upper Mustang and many are left infected causing fear and anxiety amongst the people. With limited resources and experience in tackling the virus, our health workers were on the front line helping the sick as much as possible. Your support in making required equipment available has further motivated and equipped our health workers to serve our community efficiently. Your quick response to our request for help and immediate provision of equipment has indeed helped Mustang in tackling with the virus.</em></p> <p><em>We are immensely grateful to you and your friends at World Expeditions for helping Mustang during these difficult and uncertain times. As we continue to tackle with the virus, we are hopeful we will come out of it strong with help from kind friends like you.</em></p> <p><em>Sincerely,<br /> Jigme Singhi Palbar Bista<br /> President, Lo Gyalpo Jigme Foundation</em></p> </blockquote> <p><em></em>It's not every day you receive a letter from royalty – amazing work, Margie!<em></em></p> <p><em>Published 31 May 2021. Last updated 19 July 2021.</em></p> <hr />3786A tribute to Sue Fear: A lost legendhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3785/a-tribute-to-sue-fear-a-lost-legendActivities,Mountaineering,Community,Guides and staff,NewsMon, 24 May 2021 06:22:29 GMT<h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong>Remembering Sue Fear, the first Australian-born female to summit Mt Everest, 1963-2006</strong></span></h4> <p><br /> The 28<sup>th</sup> of May, 2006, is the day the world lost the adventurous spirit, strength and beauty of Sue Fear, who was an important member of the World Expeditions family for almost two decades.<br /> <br /> While it’s been 15 years since Sue very sadly succumbed to a tragic accident on her descent from Mt Manaslu (8,163m) in Nepal – the world’s eighth highest mountain, there is not a day that she is not far from our hearts and thoughts.<br /> <br /> We called her ‘Fearless’ for the stoic and relentless passion she had to escape into the wilds to trek, ski and in later years, climb the big mountains.</p> <blockquote> <p><strong>May 28 marks her tragic passing during her fifth 8,000-metre expedition when a late-season ice bridge gave way to a crevasse in terrible weather conditions and where a rescue was impossible.</strong></p> </blockquote> <p>Sue is immortalised as a young, vivacious lady with smiling, blue eyes who gave so much to the world.<br /> <br /> At home, she was a loving sister to her brothers Graham and John and like a best friend to her father Ron, who was so proud of Sue, not only for her climbs on Mt Everest, Shishapangma, Makalu and Broad Peak, but because she was an inspiration to females of all ages.<br /> <br /> She lived a minimalistic lifestyle and yet gave her time generously to all who knew her. Her philanthropic work extended to Nepal, The Fred Hollows Foundation and the Australian Himalayan Foundation, volunteering and providing fundraising support, which was avidly part of her DNA.<br /> <br /> Aged just 43 years at the time of her death, she was one of only ten women globally who had successfully reached five 8,000+ metre mountains and was the first Australian-born woman to climb the technically difficult north face of Mount Everest.<br /> <br /> There are very few books written by women climbers and Sue’s <em>‘<a href="https://suefear.org/shop/" target="_blank">Fear No Boundary: the road to Everest and beyond</a></em><a href="https://suefear.org/shop/" target="_blank">’</a> is an intriguing read about her journey to become Australia’s most successful female mountaineer.  </p> <blockquote> <p><strong>Sue made a huge contribution to Australian mountaineering and paved the way for females in the sport, which is traditionally male-dominated.</strong></p> </blockquote> <p>She used her profile, as one of the world’s leading female mountaineers, to help others and that was synonymous with how Sue chose to live her life.<br /> <br /> She also loved to present to student aged girls, championing the messages that as a petite-framed person matching the boys in climbing big mountains, that we should all strive to be the best version of ourselves, to dream big and to achieve big things.<br /> <br /> She empowered young people to get out of their comfort zone, to immerse themselves in nature and to meet other cultures. So in 2019 when Barker College in Sydney’s upper North Shore, where Sue had attended the last two years of high school, it was apt that they named a house in her honour with ‘courageous soul’ attached with the house motto.</p> <div style="background:#eeeeee;border:1px solid #cccccc;padding:5px 10px;"><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong>SUE FEAR’S SUMMIT ACHIEVEMENTS:</strong></span><br /> <br />   - Mt Kilimanjaro (5,895m) Tanzania<br />   - Makalu II (7,678m) Nepal<br />   - Cho Oyu (8,188m) Nepal<br />   - Shishapangma (8,027m) Tibet<br />   - Mt Everest (8,848m) Nepal<br />   - Gasherbrum II (8,034m) Pakistan<br />   - Mt Manaslu II (8,163m) Nepal</div> <p><strong></strong></p> <blockquote> <p><strong>'Climbing is a bit like rolling a dice – sometimes things fall into place and you achieve your aim. Sometimes your number comes up.' </strong>– Sue Fear</p> </blockquote> <p>Her achievements have been recognised in other spheres too, most notably, in 2005 when she was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for her services to mountaineering and work as Ambassador for the Fred Hollows Foundation.<br /> <br /> As a passionate advocate of wilderness travel, she was also celebrated as Australian Geographic's Adventurer of the Year in 2003 and in her memory, <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Larapinta-Trail-Semi-Permanent-Eco-Camps" target="_blank">World Expeditions’ eco campsite</a> beneath Mt Sonder at the western end of the Larapinta Trail, is named after her, <a href="https://www.larapintatrailwalk.com.au/our-campsites/exclusive-campsites/fearless-camp" target="_blank">Camp Fearless</a>.<br /> <br /> As well as guiding internationally, Sue relished taking trekkers on the Northern Territory’s <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/activities/trekking-hiking/larapinta-trail-treks-australian-walks" target="_blank">Larapinta Trail</a>, through the West MacDonnell Ranges near Alice Springs, when World Expeditions first pioneered commercial walking on the trail.  <br /> <br /> World Expeditions were blessed to have Sue’s professional involvement as a tour guide over 16 years, leading treks around the world, and it was hard not to be in awe of her ardent interest in helping others to achieve their outdoor pursuits.<br /> <br /> We often hear from past travellers who regale their memories of Sue Fear as their trek or mountaineering guide, having met her at one of the information nights she’d presented or heard her inspiring keynote speech at an event.</p> <p>She loved a beer, listening to music, dancing, running, swimming and, of course, going on bushwalks.</p> <p>Sue was an incredibly accomplished mountaineer, an outstanding guide and a dear friend to us.</p> <p>As she lays in the abode of the gods on the mountain in her beloved Himalaya, we all remember Sue in our own way and with our own precious memories.<br /> <br /> Rest in peace, Fearless, we miss you dearly.<br /> <br /> <strong>You can read more about her legacy at <a href="https://suefear.org/" target="_blank">suefear.org</a> and leave a message for her family who dedicated the website to Sue.</strong><br /> <br /> <em>Words by Sue Badyari, CEO of World Expeditions.</em><br /> <br /> <em>Published 24 May 2021</em></p> <p><em></em></p> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="560" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MLmgq0uk_Go" title="YouTube video player" width="100%"></iframe> <hr /> <p> </p> 3785Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track: New Zealand's next Great Walkhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3739/tuatapere-hump-ridge-track-new-zealand-great-walkActivities,Trekking/Walking,Destinations,Australia, New Zealand &amp; the Pacific,New Zealand,NewsTue, 23 Mar 2021 03:46:03 GMT<p><strong>Soon to become an official Great Walk of New Zealand, you'll want to experience the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track in the Fiordland National Park before everyone else finds out about it.</strong></p> <div> <p><strong>Travel editor, writer and global tour guide, Shane Boocock, shares his walking journey on one of the Southland's most iconic tracks.</strong></p> <p>As a relatively obscure song alludes to in its opening lines: “Passing seasons all but fade away into misty clouds of autumn grey,” so in Southland, seasons change rapidly as I was about to find out. The weather gods were on our side and the morning mist was soon burning off as we started hiking the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/New-Zealand/Trekking-Hiking/Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-Explorer" target="_blank">Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track</a>. </p> <p>The track is administered by a private trust that offers trampers a three-day hike staying two nights en route in their private backcountry lodges. My accommodation for the night before the trip was at the amusingly named, The Wicked Dump near the Hump. This is just outside of Tuatapere, the closest town to the start of the track, on a small rural block where an old dairy shed has been converted into a lovely one bedroom, self-contained cottage. It’s a great place to drink a glass of chardonnay on sunset as the owner’s sheep graze in the next paddock. </p> <p>The first part of this journey was a four-minute chopper ride to an isolated spot on the coast near Flat Creek. This in effect reduces the track distance by 10 kilometres. Interestingly, about 85 percent of hikers who attempt the track are, for the most part, Kiwis. Our group consisted of a couple from Tauranga, Lyn and Malcolm and Errol from Dunedin as well as our guide Liz from the West Coast. </p> <blockquote> <p><strong>Our first day’s ascent was only 12 kilometres but it was the last five kilometres that would test our stamina and ability to climb from sea level to 1,014 metres at the very top – literally a ‘stairway to heaven.’ </strong></p> </blockquote> <p>This is an area with more wilderness and less people than you’ll find on other tramping routes in New Zealand – it’s that remote. From the shoreline of unspoilt beaches we walked along the track experiencing the diversity of our beautiful native bush as it changes dramatically with elevation gain from native podocarp forest to soaring limestone ‘tors’ on the mountaintop.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Group enjoying the well built Tuatapere Hump Ridge trails | <i>Shane Boocock</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="730533" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Group-enjoying-the-well-built-Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-trails-730533-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Group-enjoying-the-well-built-Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-trails-730533-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Home for the night - Okaka Lodge | <i>Shane Boocock</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="730534" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Okaka-Lodge---Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-730534-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Okaka-Lodge---Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-730534-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Time for a quick cuppa along the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track | <i>Shane Boocock</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="730535" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Shelter-along-the-Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-730535-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Shelter-along-the-Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-730535-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div> <p><br /> The first couple of hours from Flat Creek are across a fairly level forest track where the sun filtered through the dense canopy into even denser undergrowth. Then the track started getting steeper as our group of five climbed slowly to our first rest stop at Water Bridge. As the name suggests it’s a good place to refill your water bottles by slinging an old billy-pan into the clear stream below and hauling it back up to the bridge with the attached rope.</p> <p>From now on it was all uphill to our next rest spot, Stag Point, where our lunch was consumed looking out over the Southern Ocean. It’s here you suddenly realise how much wilderness you’ve tramped through as the forest below is laid out like a giant jade green carpet stretching to the ocean.</p> <p>Finally we reached the summit where a wooden walkway loops around a landscape of alpine plants, such as the Mount Cook Daisy and giant ‘tors’, with views at one point extending west out over the beauty that is Fiordland National Park.</p> <blockquote> <p><strong>Dinner at Okaka Lodge was sumptuous. Starters were garlic and chilli prawns on a fragrant bed of shaved cucumber and coriander, followed by a ribeye steak with blackcurrant and onion glaze and kumara mash with seasonal green vegetables. For dessert we were offered the most sinful chocolate mousse ever served! This really was heaven.</strong></p> </blockquote> <p>The start of another day: it was 8.40 am. From the warmth of Okaka Lodge it was time to head along the Hump Ridge itself to a spot known as Luncheon Rock, a slab of stone that juts out into thin air off the ridge. However, during the night it had rained heavily and we woke to fine misty rain and winds blowing at what felt like gale force. </p> <p>Liz our tour guide blurted out, “It’s a claggy sort of day isn’t it, you can’t see bugger all really.” How right she was. Everyone donned thermal layers, leggings, gaiters, beanie-hats and rain jackets – weather in this part of New Zealand can change dramatically in minutes, so carrying all-weather gear is encouraged even in summer.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Not a bad place for a photo - sweeping views of the Southern New Zealand coastline | <i>Shane Boocock</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="730536" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Southern-Coastline---Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-730536-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Southern-Coastline---Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-730536-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Look over there - stunning views across Fiordland National Park | <i>Shane Boocock</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="730537" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Stunning-views-across-Fiordland-National-Park---Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-730537-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Stunning-views-across-Fiordland-National-Park---Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-730537-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Where all good boots go to retire on the Hump Ridge Track | <i>Shane Boocock</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="730538" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Shoe-graveyard---Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-730538-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Shoe-graveyard---Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-730538-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <p>Once we reached Luncheon Rock it was downhill all the way... over 3,000 steps or more it was later divulged. The boardwalks and steps are all handmade especially on the steeper sections but more so in places where the fragile alpine environment needs protecting.</p> <p>Emerging from the track we found ourselves on an old bush tramline. The single line ran from Port Craig (once known as Mussel Beach) to the Wairaurahiri River for 14.6 kilometres where a steam locomotive once hauled logs from the bush workings to the new sawmill that had been established in 1916.</p> <p>Walking this section gives you the opportunity to cross the historic wooden Edwin Burn Viaduct and the Sand Hill Viaduct. Unfortunately DOC have closed access to the largest viaduct in the Southern Hemisphere, the Percy Burn Viaduct which is 35 metres high and 125 metres long, as they deem the structure to be too dangerous. (Since writing this there is new funding in place to strengthen the whole structure and to reopen it in the future)</p> <p>Sadly the original owners of the Port Craig sawmill and operations had under-estimated the cost of working in such an isolated region and over-estimated the volume of timber that could be extracted. By 1928 with the approach of the Great Depression, a decision to close the mill and the tramline was inevitable.</p> <p>Today all that remains is an old school house (now a DOC hut), the walls of the old Boiler House and relics of a bygone era strewn around the area. This is also where the Port Craig Lodge is situated and after hiking 20 kilometres that day it was a welcome sight for our weary group.</p> <p>Accompanied by bottle of Otago red, what Lynda described as, “Lunatic Soup,” dinner at the lodge was whitebait fritters for the entree, smoked salmon with a sweet chilli and citrus salsa with citrus and poppy seed rice and seasonal green salad for the main and a pavlova nest with fresh whipped cream and central Otago summer fruits... not a bad way to end a 20 kilometres day I reckon.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Walking along the southern coastline of the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track | <i>Shane Boocock</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="730539" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Southern-shoreline---Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-730539-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Australasia/New-Zealand/Southern-shoreline---Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-730539-###width###px.jpg" /></div> <p><br /> On day three we departed at 9.15 am along the coastal track from Port Craig, ‘the timber town that pushed boundaries’ heading for Blowholes Beach, which by the way, no longer blows.</p> <p>Breakfast that morning had been bacon and scrambled eggs, what Malcolm referred to as, “Crackle Berries.” However when there was some left over bacon, Lynda the lodge manager proffered it to Malcolm who gladly accepted it. Sliding the rashers onto his plate she said, “Here you go, a heart attack on a plate.”</p> <p>Immediately we were under a dense canopy where light hardly penetrated, stepping over corduroy pungas in muddy patches as we slowly made our way back to Flat Creek. </p> <blockquote> <p><strong>The trail was through more podocarp forests of rata, red and white pine hanging like an umbrella above a shag pile floor of ferns, unidentified plants, epiphytes, moss, lichen, vines, decaying trees, bamboo orchids and even a small Prince Charles fern (so named as it’s considered flouncy – go figure). </strong></p> </blockquote> <p>Bouncing over wooden bridges spanning bourbon-stained streams, uphill over and around headlands towards Track Burn, and onto Stony Creek and then finally across the swing bridge that straddles the Waikoau River where a couple of whitebait fisherman had left nets out.</p> <p>Smack on 4.00 pm we arrived at the end of the Hump Ridge Track at the Rarakau car park. My neck and shoulders ached, one of my knees felt like a hot skewer was passing through the joint as I climbed the last few steps. My left foot was in pain with a bloodied toenail and I could’ve killed a cold beer and soaked my body in a hot tub right there and then – but all that would have to wait.</p> <p>These are just a few of the things you should expect after hiking 52 kilometres in three days. But make no mistake as I dragged my aching limbs, tired muscles and sore body for 17 kilometres on that last day, I wouldn’t have missed ‘Hiking the ‘Hump’ for all the whitebait in Southland.</p> <p><em>Words by Shane Boocock, Editor of Let's Travel.</em><br />  </p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/New-Zealand/Trekking-Hiking/Tuatapere-Hump-Ridge-Track-Explorer" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track walk ></button></a><em></em></p>   <hr /> <p><em></em><em></em></p> </div> 3739Top 10 under-the-radar adventure destinationshttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3249/most-underrated-adventure-destinationsActivities,Adventure Travel,Trekking/Walking,NewsFri, 11 Dec 2020 00:36:00 GMT<p>We've been pioneering off the beaten track itineraries for more than 45 years and seeking out alternate destinations is all part of the fun!</p> <p>These little-known treks and historic trails are some of the biggest adventure secrets. You may be surprised what destinations make it into our top 10 most under-the-radar destinations.</p> <h2>Ethiopia's Simien Mountains</h2> <p>The Simien Mountains offer superb trekking with stunning scenery, imposing escarpments and the chance to spot unusual wildlife such as Gelada baboon; and it’s this combination of culture, history and natural beauty that places Ethiopia in our top 10.</p> <p><strong>Why it's under-the-radar?</strong> Few people realise the depth of history and beauty that define Ethiopia. The Simien Mountains, in particular, delivers a sense of isolation amidst a grand landscape punctuated with the calls of rare wildlife. Expect to see few trekkers on this wilderness trek.</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Th-GDIfim0Q?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div>   <p><strong>How to best experience it: </strong>Our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Ethiopia/Trekking-Hiking/Ethiopia-Simien-Mountains-and-Beyond" target="_blank">Ethiopia Simien Mountains and Beyond</a> adventure, combine a 10-day camping-based trek among the region's spectacular escarpments with a journey across a land dotted with rock-hewn churches, medieval castles and ancient obelisks reflecting a culture dating back more than 3000 years.</p> <p style="margin-left: 20px;"><a href="/Ethiopia" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View all Ethiopia adventures<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>Kyrgyzstan's Turkestan Range</h2> <p>This Central Asian region is emerging as an adventure traveller’s paradise and the picturesque Turkestan Range in Kyrgyzstan is going to be a magnet for active adventurers to the region. Often referred to as the 'Asian Patagonia' because of its stunning sheer rock formations and sense of true wilderness, the landscape is strewn with crystal clear glacier-fed streams and lakes, lush fir tree forests and alpine meadows providing feed for herds of grazing yaks. Turkestan's mountains and valleys definitely deserve a spot on the podium.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Ridge between Dzhalgychy and Orto-Chashma gorges" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581461" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/D3.Ridge-between-Dzhalgychy-and-Orto-Chashma-gorges-581461-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/D3.Ridge-between-Dzhalgychy-and-Orto-Chashma-gorges-581461-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="The Ak-Tash camp at 2,700m." class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581463" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/D1.Ak-Tash-camp-2016-581463-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/D1.Ak-Tash-camp-2016-581463-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="The towering sheer rock peaks of Asan (4,230m), Usen (4,378m) and Piramidalnyi (5,509m)" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581464" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/DSC07921-581464-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Kyrgyzstan/DSC07921-581464-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <p><strong>Why it's <strong>under-the-radar</strong>? </strong>Entering the heart of the Pamir-Alay mountain system, the newly opened trail opens up this largely unexplored region. It traverses some of the region's most remote and unspoilt landscapes, where travellers can experience true solitude in its wild beauty.</p> <p><strong>How to best experience it:</strong> The 14-day <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Kyrgyzstan/Trekking-Hiking/Ak-Suu-Turkestan-Range-Trek" target="_blank">Ak-Suu Turkestan Range Trek</a> follows mountain trails through this beautiful area, with a backdrop of sheer rock, snow-capped walls <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;">–</span> and no one in sight.</p> <p style="margin-left: 20px;"><a href="/Kyrgyzstan" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View all Kyrgyzstan adventures<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>Georgia & Armenia's Transcaucasian Trail</h2> <p>We've been saying for a while that the new Transcaucasian Trail is trekking’s next big thing. On the borderlands between Europe and Asia, the new Trail will extend more than 3000 kilometres (1875 miles), connecting more than 20 national parks, endless UNESCO listed sites and protected areas in Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia, collectively known as the Southern Caucasus.</p> <p><img alt="The Trancaucasian Trail will introduce you to the real Georgia" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581654" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Georgia/Ananuri_Castle_Georgia-581654-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Georgia/Ananuri_Castle_Georgia-581654-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p><strong>Why it's <strong>under-the-radar</strong>? </strong>Few have stepped foot on this recently opened trail that is scenically stunning and historically fascinating.</p> <p><strong>How to best experience it: </strong>Already gaining applause from TIME Magazine and Forbes Magazine, the Transcaucasian Trail Hikes in <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Georgia/Trekking-Hiking/Transcaucasian-Trail-Hike-Georgia" target="_blank">Georgia</a> and <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Georgia/Trekking-Hiking/Transcaucasian-Trail-Hike-Armenia" target="_blank">Armenia</a> can be experienced separately or jointly.</p> <p style="margin-left: 20px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Transcaucasian" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View Transcaucasian hikes<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>China's Rainbow Mountains of Zhangye Danxia</h2> <p>Once again, it’s the combination of stunning natural landscapes and cultural and historical highlights of an overlooked region that put this destination on the list.</p> <p><strong>Why it's <strong>under-the-radar</strong>? </strong>You’ve heard of the Rainbow Mountains of Peru or Ausangate Mountains, but probably not China’s Rainbow Mountains. With an equally astonishing range of colours, China’s Rainbow Mountains are relatively unknown and it’s this that places them in the top 10 list.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="The Rainbow Mountains of China's Zhangye Danxia" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581655" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/China/Zhangye-Danxia-581655-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/China/Zhangye-Danxia-581655-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="The towering rock formations of Binggou Danxia Geopark" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581657" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/China/Binggou-Danxia-Geopark-581657-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/China/Binggou-Danxia-Geopark-581657-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Zhangye Danxia, China's Rainbow Mountains" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581656" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/China/Zhangye-Danxia-581656-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/China/Zhangye-Danxia-581656-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Jiayu Guan and the Qilian Mountains" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581660" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/China/Jiayu-Pass-581660-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/China/Jiayu-Pass-581660-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="The Qilian Mountains form the border between Qinghai and Gansu provinces." class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581661" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/China/Qilian-Mountains-581661-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/China/Qilian-Mountains-581661-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <p><strong>How to best experience it:</strong> The 6-day <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/China/Trekking-Hiking/Rainbow-Mountains-Mati-Temple" target="_blank">Rainbow Mountains and the Mati Temple</a> includes historical highlights such as the fortresses of the Southern Qilian Mountains, on the remote, western part of the Great Wall of China and the Mati temple carved in the Linsong Mountain.</p> <p style="margin-left: 20px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/China/Trekking-Hiking/Rainbow-Mountains-Mati-Temple" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View Rainbow Mountain hike<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>Japan's Kumano Kodo</h2> <p><strong></strong>The dual pilgrim certificate, available in conjunction with the widely known Spanish <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageSize=6&searchKeywords=camino+de+santiago" target="_blank">Camino de Santiago</a> pilgrim trail, is helping spread the word about Japan’s World Heritage Kumano Kodo pilgrim trails but, as yet, they remain largely off most international visitors’ itineraries.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Hikers on the cobble lined Nakahechi route" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581662" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Daimon-Zaka_-Kumano-Kodo_-Japan-581662-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Daimon-Zaka_-Kumano-Kodo_-Japan-581662-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Kumano Nachi Taisha and falls in the spring" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581667" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Nachi-falls-and-pagoda-2-581667-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Nachi-falls-and-pagoda-2-581667-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="'Haraido-oji', a purifying door on the approach to Kumano Hongu Grand Shrine" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581663" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Haraido-oji-581663-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Haraido-oji-581663-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Bathers enjoying the hot spring waters at Kawayu Onsen" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581664" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Kawayu-onsen-581664-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Kawayu-onsen-581664-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Hosshinmon-oji, a gate of spiritual awaking on the Kumano Kodo hike" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581666" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Hosshinmon-oji_-Kumano-Kodo-581666-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Hosshinmon-oji_-Kumano-Kodo-581666-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Panoramic views on the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Hike" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581665" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Kumano-Kodo-Pilgrimage-Hike-581665-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Asia/Japan/Kumano-Kodo-Pilgrimage-Hike-581665-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <p><strong>Why it's <strong>under-the-radar</strong>? </strong>Approximately only about 200,000 people walk the Kumano Kodo trail each year, most of whom are Japanese. It remains relatively unknown internationally.</p> <p><strong>How to best experience it:</strong> The self-guided 10-day <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Japan/Adventure-Touring/Kumano-Kodo-Coast-to-Coast-Self-Guided-Hike" target="_blank">Kumano Kodo Coast to Coast Hike</a> takes the pilgrim route and offers support of all logistics like accommodation and luggage transfers.</p> <p style="margin-left: 20px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageSize=6&searchKeywords=kumano+kodo" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View all Kumano Kodo hikes<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>Jordan Trail</h2> <p>Another new trail, which loosely follows an ancient trade route stretching from Egypt to Aqaba and on to Damascus, is the recently completed Jordan Trail.</p> <p><strong>Why it's <strong>under-the-radar</strong>?</strong> As yet widely unknown, the 650 kilometre and 40-day trail crosses the entire country through diverse landscapes and terrain, from striking cliffs and rugged ‘wadis’ to archaeological monuments, placing this destination at the top of our list.</p> <p><img alt="Wadi Rum's desert landscape at sunrise | <i>Richard I'Anson</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581668" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Jordan/Desert-landscape-at-sunrise_-Wadi-Rum_-Jordan-581668-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Central-Asia-_-Middle-East/Jordan/Desert-landscape-at-sunrise_-Wadi-Rum_-Jordan-581668-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p><strong>How to best experience it:</strong> The 10-day <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Jordan/Trekking-Hiking/Jordan-Trail-Highlights" target="_blank">Jordan Trail Highlights</a> takes in some of the best sections of the trail, as well as the country’s highest point, the ancient city of Petra, the world’s lowest point in the Dead Sea and the unforgettable Wadi Rum.</p> <p style="margin-left: 20px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Jordan/Trekking-Hiking/Jordan-Trail-Highlights" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View Jordan Trail Highlights<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>Newfoundland Canada’s East Coast Trail</h2> <p>Traversing towering cliffs and headlands, sea stacks, coves, and deep fjords, these natural sights give this destination its long-established reputation as one of the world’s most spectacular coastlines. The 300-kilometre (187 miles) trail is a series of 26 wilderness paths and is the ultimate eastern hiking experience in Canada.</p> <p><strong>Why it's <strong>under-the-radar</strong>?</strong> Not many realise the opportunities to explore more remote sections farther south such as beautiful Flamber Head Path and to the impressive sea arch at Berry Head. Walking the trail combines stunning scenery with the opportunity to visit charming colourful coastal fishing villages and enjoy the hospitality of bay-side communities.</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/x3yBIoupmk0?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div>   <p><strong>How to best experience it: </strong>The 10-day <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Canada/Walking-Self-Guided/East-Coast-Trail" target="_blank">East Coast Trail</a> takes in many of the trail’s highlights, providing transfers, guesthouse and B&B accommodation and luggage transfers. There is a real possibility of whale, puffins, moose, or iceberg sightings while on the trail; but encounters with genuine, story-telling local hosts are guaranteed!</p> <p style="margin-left: 20px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageSize=6&categories=CAN&searchKeywords=east+coast+trail" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View East Coast Trail trips<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>Nepal's Gokyo region</h2> <p>Perhaps it was the widely distributed images of crowds of mountaineers on the high trails above Everest Base Camp earlier in the year that has stimulated fresh interest in alternative treks in the Everest region but, whatever the reason, we see it as a good thing.</p> <p><strong>Why it's <strong>under-the-radar</strong>?</strong> In spite of fresh interest, trails around the Gokyo Lakes remain the region’s biggest secret. The trek to Gokyo and up the Renjo La Pass, in particular, breaks away from the main Everest Base Camp trails and enters a picturesque and more tranquil valley, offering classic postcard views of snow-capped mountains and the vibrant turquoise waters of Gokyo Lake.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Amazing views as we trek above Gokyo Lake | <i>Monika Molenda</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581674" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Gokyo_-Renjo-La-581674-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Gokyo_-Renjo-La-581674-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Blue skies overhead as we approach the summit of Gokyo Ri | <i>Angela Parajo</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581671" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Gokyo-Ri_-Nepal-581671-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Gokyo-Ri_-Nepal-581671-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Happy group of trekkers atop of the Renjo La, Nepal | <i>Scott Cardwell</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581675" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Gokyo-Ri-Nepal-Himalaya-Everest-region-581675-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Gokyo-Ri-Nepal-Himalaya-Everest-region-581675-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Trekkers walking towards Renjo La" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581688" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/To-Add/Trekkers-walking-towards-Renjo-La-581688-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/To-Add/Trekkers-walking-towards-Renjo-La-581688-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="trekking past first Gokyo lakes | <i>Angela Parajo</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581673" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Bardo/Angela-Parajo-Nepal/Gokyo-Ri_-Nepal-581673-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Bardo/Angela-Parajo-Nepal/Gokyo-Ri_-Nepal-581673-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Breathtaking mountain views from the top of the Renjo La | <i>Angela Parajo</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581686" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Renjo-la-Pass_-Nepal-581686-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Renjo-la-Pass_-Nepal-581686-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <p><strong>How to best experience it:</strong> The 17-day <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal/Trekking-Hiking/Gokyo-the-Renjo-La" target="_blank">Gokyo and the Renjo La</a> trek is ranked by our staff as the best trek in the Everest region as it takes trekkers off the beaten path and to inspiring views of Mt Everest well away from the crowds.</p> <p style="margin-left: 20px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageSize=15&searchKeywords=gokyo" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View all treks to Gokyo<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>Nepal's Great Himalaya Trail</h2> <p>When mentioning Nepal, it's hard not to note the epic 150-day Great Himalaya Trail which commences in the country's far east in the Kanchenjunga region and traverses the country to the high plateaus on the Tibetan borderlands in the far west. Along this 1700 kilometre trail (1063 miles), trekkers encounter some of the wildest and most remote mountain environments imaginable.</p> <p>Having operated the Great Himalaya Trail for 10 consecutive years, we remain the only company globally to do so. Trekkers can see all of Nepal's 8000-metre peaks while bearing witness to a village life where its culture has remained intact for centuries, earning it a deserving spot in the top 10.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Capturing the mountainscape along the GHT | <i>Ken Harris</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581342" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Full-GHT-2018-581342-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Full-GHT-2018-581342-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Trekking the early stages of Nepal's Great Himalaya Trail | <i>Ken Harris</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581344" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Full-GHT-2018-581344-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Full-GHT-2018-581344-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Beautiful landscape while crossing the Thorong La on the Great Himalaya Trail | <i>Ray Mustey</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581347" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Annapurna-Range-Himalayas-Nepal-581347-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Annapurna-Range-Himalayas-Nepal-581347-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="The elusive Red Panda spotted on trek along the Great Himalaya Trail | <i>Ken Harris</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581343" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Full-GHT-2018---Red-Panda-sighting-581343-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Full-GHT-2018---Red-Panda-sighting-581343-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Spectacular mountain views along the Great Himalaya Trail | <i>Ken Harris</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581345" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Full-GHT-2018-581345-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Full-GHT-2018-581345-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Early stages of Nepal's Great Himalaya Trail | <i>Ken Harris</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581346" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Full-GHT-2018-581346-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Full-GHT-2018-581346-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="Kanchenjunga South Base Camp | <i>Michelle Landry</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="581348" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Kanchenjunga-South-Base-Camp-581348-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Great-Himalaya-Trail/Kanchenjunga-South-Base-Camp-581348-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div>   <p><strong>Why it's <strong>under-the-radar</strong>?</strong> Because of the physical challenge involved in tackling a trek of this duration; nonetheless, it's a life-changing adventure. In such remote conditions, trekkers have unparalleled opportunities to meet locals who can go for months and sometimes years without seeing overseas visitors.</p> <p><strong>How to best experience it: </strong>We’ve crafted <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal-Regions/Great-Himalaya-Trail" target="_blank">seven stand-alone stages</a> that can be completed individually or trekked together to make up the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal/Trekking-Hiking/GHT-Nepal-The-Full-Traverse" target="_blank">full traverse</a>.</p> <p style="margin-left: 20px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal-Regions/Great-Himalaya-Trail" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View all GHT sections<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <h2>Pakistan's Karakoram Ranges</h2> <p>From K2 base camp, through the awe-inspiring Concordia ranges and to Gondogoro La, the Karakoram ranges reveal an unrivalled collection of what many describe as the most spectacular mountain scenery on earth.</p> <p><strong>Why it's <strong>under-the-radar</strong>?</strong> A just-launched trek to the inner Karakoram in Pakistan takes a route along the legendary Baltoro glacier to the "throne room of the Gods". It's tough, rewarding and truly off-the-map.</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/1xTrciqkTyg?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div> <p><strong><br /> How to best experience it: </strong>Take on an<strong> </strong>expedition of a lifetime in the presence of mountaineering legends and highly experienced mountain guides and trekking crew. Our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Pakistan/Trekking-Hiking/Ultimate-K2-Trek-Basecamp-Concordia-Gondogoro-La-with-Andrew-Lock" target="_blank">Ultimate K2 Trek</a> and <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Pakistan/Trekking-Exploratory/Karakoram-Exploratory-with-Tim-Macartney-Snape" target="_blank">Karakoram Exploratory Trek</a> offer fully-serviced wilderness camping, including specialist high altitude porters.</p> <p style="margin-left: 20px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageSize=3&categories=PAK&searchKeywords=Karakoram" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">View all Karakoram treks<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> 3249Travel Better: Memorable Responsible Travel Momentshttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3630/travel-better-responsible-travel-momentsNews,Thoughtful TravelMon, 30 Nov 2020 01:41:00 GMT<p><span style="color:#949e17;"><em><strong>2021 marks the 20th anniversary of our pioneering Responsible Travel Guidebook, a document designed to educate travellers on how they could reduce their impact when travelling.  Since then, our commitment to minimal impact tourism has seen us introduce many more initiatives that have been embraced by our travelling community – check out the highlights below.</strong></em></span></p> <p>In a world that is so beautiful, we aim to bring you closer to nature and create meaningful experiences with local communities and their cultures responsibly. It is a world with endless natural wonders to explore; a place we call our home. But it is a world that is undoubtedly under threat from our impact.</p> <p><strong>Since our inaugural Himalayan trek in 1975, we have been leaders in Thoughtful Travel. </strong>From day one, our ethos was to get out of the bus and to reduce our impact by exploring the world under our own steam. For over four decades, we've been creating genuine and sustainable itineraries to help protect what is delicate and to leave a positive influence. It has been in the past 20 years, however – where 'green travel' has become mainstream – that our responsible travel initiatives have received the public support required to become a real success.</p> <p><strong>A particular highlight was receiving the Environmental Achievement Award for our ‘Responsible Travel Guidebook’ publication from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in 2001</strong>, which educated travellers to reduce their impact and has since evolved into our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/ebrochures/Thought-Traveller-Guidebook/index.html?_ga=2.69840144.126101284.1521430027-2107553138.1515013435" target="_blank">Thoughtful Traveller booklet</a>. Almost 20 years on, we’ve continued to pioneer minimal impact travel ideas with our ‘BIG Adventures. Small Footprint’ travel ethos at the backbone of our itineraries which we consciously craft to respect and positively impact the well-being of the communities and ecosystems we visit.</p> <p><strong>But we could not have come this far without our thoughtful travellers </strong>who have supported us and helped collectively change the world for good. Not only do our travellers leave with an enriching and transformative adventure experience with us, they have helped champion positive changes so others can also appreciate and experience the beauty of the earth. So thank you!</p> <p>Your support means we can continue to make lasting positive impacts so future generations can also experience the wilderness of the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/why-raft-the-franklin-river" target="_blank">Franklin</a> just as beautifully 40 years on; or to responsibly <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/larapinta-trail-ancient-australia-northern-territory" target="_blank">walk the Larapinta Trail in the footsteps of the Arrernte people</a>, one of the longest continuing cultures on the planet.</p> <p>From protecting wildlife and supporting renewable energy to lending a philanthropic arm for our <strong><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/lend-a-hand-appeal-update" target="_blank">Lend A Hand Appeal</a> – with over $42K raised so far for struggling travel industry </strong>workers, our travellers and supporters are all amazing! Learn more about our most memorable responsible travel achievements and commitments below.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Quick links: Jump to an achievement</strong></span><br> <span style="font-size:16px;"><a href="#1"><span style="color:#999999;">Offering carbon-neutral trips</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#2"><span style="color:#999999;">Allowing travellers to invest in local communities and support cleaner energy at no extra cost</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#3"><span style="color:#999999;">Distributed 485 emergency packages to stricken communities </span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#4"><span style="color:#999999;">Launching Community Project Travel in response to the 2004 Asian Tsunami</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#5"><span style="color:#999999;">Allowing travellers to sleep greener at our eco-friendly campsites </span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#6"><span style="color:#999999;">Raised over $7 million for charities worldwide</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#7"><span style="color:#999999;">Funding and supporting education projects in poor communities</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#8"><span style="color:#999999;">Bringing tourism dollars to remote communities</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#9"><span style="color:#999999;">Pioneering regenerative travel which aims at positive social and environmental impact</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#10"><span style="color:#999999;">Became a founding member of the 10 Pieces Litter Collection</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#11"><span style="color:#999999;">First company to develop a formalised animal welfare code of conduct</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#12"><span style="color:#999999;">First company to stop offering orphanage tourism</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#13"><span style="color:#999999;">Became founding supporters of the International Porter Protection Group</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#14"><span style="color:#999999;">Hosted a Thoughtful Travel Q&A</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#15"><span style="color:#999999;">Were the first charter member of the ‘Peace Through Tourism’ campaign</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#16"><span style="color:#999999;">Completed over 400 Youth Service Learning Programs</span></a><span style="color:#999999;"><span style="color:#555555;"></span></span><br> <a href="#17"><span style="color:#999999;">An ongoing commitment to improve through the power of partnerships</span></a></span></p> <h3><span style="color:#949e17;">Thoughtful Travel Highlights</span></h3> <h4 id="1"><strong>Offering carbon-neutral trips</strong></h4> <p><strong></strong>We have long been concerned about the impacts of global warming and the impacts tourism contributes to that. While travelling has unavoidable carbon emissions, we're continuing to take BIG steps to reduce our footprint and improve our operations at every level.</p> <p>From November 2019, we began to <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Offset-Your-Land-Travel" target="_blank">offset 100% of the unavoidable carbon emission</a> from our adventure travel holidays, so travellers can explore the world sustainably.</p> <p>“Travellers can continue to travel, providing incredibly important revenues into nations where tourism is a vital part of the national GDP mix, and do it guilt-free. We also encourage travellers to carbon offset their flights using the airline programmes. It’s an important trajectory that we hope the entire industry will join in on.” – Sue Badyari, CEO of World Expeditions Travel Group</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong>In the industry, we can continue to foster change for good while supporting jobs for those employed by tourism around the globe, and that is a win-win.</strong></span></p> </blockquote> <h4 id="2"><strong>Allowing travellers to invest in local communities and support cleaner energy at no extra cost</strong></h4> <p>The carbon credits purchased from South Pole to offset emissions from trips are absorbed by World Expeditions, not passed on to travellers. In turn, our travellers help the climate cause to transition from fossil fuel dependency to renewable energy and help to protect and regenerate forests that capture and store carbon from the atmosphere.</p> <p>This means that for each active holiday our travellers book onto, they are directly supporting <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/thoughtful-travel/carbon-offset-positive-impact-projects" target="_blank">Positive Impact Projects in places such as Australia, Vietnam, China and Zimbabwe</a>, which address the UN Sustainable Development Goals, like reducing poverty, affordable and clean energy, reducing hunger, clean water and climate action.</p> <p><img alt="You are supporting projects in Australia, Africa and Asia." class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="761583" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Map-of-Positive-Impact-Projects-from-land-offsets-761583-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Map-of-Positive-Impact-Projects-from-land-offsets-761583-###width###px.jpg"></p> <h4 id="3"><strong>Distributed 485 emergency packages to stricken communities </strong></h4> <p>Food and hygiene packages have been distributed to families in Nepal, Kenya, Tanzania, India and Peru thanks to our 'Lend A Hand Appeal' supporters. <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/lend-a-hand-appeal-update">Read more about the appeal and how you can donate today</a>.</p> <p><img alt="Porter families in Nepal receiving our 'Lend a Hand Appeal' food packages" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="761598" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Udaipur-1-761598-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Udaipur-1-761598-###width###px.jpg"></p> <h4 id="4"><strong>Launching Community Project Travel in response to the 2004 Asian Tsunami</strong></h4> <p>Our travellers across the globe with World Expeditions have been making tangible change in underprivileged communities that receive little to no government support and require assistance through our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Community-Project-Travel" target="_blank">Community Project Travel</a> trips.</p> <p>The dedicated division first launched in 2005 in response to the devastating Asian Tsunami in 2004 and has been a continuing force for good. Working alongside volunteers from the host communities, travellers complete grass-roots construction projects that have been funded by the World Expeditions Foundation.</p> <p>“It has become the portal for travellers to immerse in community project works that, while small scale, are measurable and leave a permanent benefit for the community once complete. As a profit for purpose division, we were able to deliver dozens of projects across the globe. This is a great pride for us, and a joy for the travellers that participated.” – Sue Badyari, CEO of World Expeditions Travel Group</p> <p class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/yQaEHDGp_PI?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></p> <h4 id="5"><strong>Allowing travellers to sleep greener at our eco-friendly campsites </strong></h4> <p>Our portfolio of adventure holidays have always had a light environmental footprint by designing trips that allow adventurers to travel under their own steam – on foot, by bike or kayaking or rafting, with low carbon accommodation preferred.</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/tWyfIIa_ctU?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div>   <p>In Nepal, our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Private-Eco-Camps-in-Nepal" target="_blank">exclusive campsites</a> offer new levels of comfort during a trek whilst caring for the environment and local communities. It provides year-round employment and career opportunities for the Nepali people (a camping-based trek can employ 25% more local people than a teahouse or lodge-based trek) and ensures a significantly smaller environmental impact, as deforestation is a major ongoing concern in the Himalaya.</p> <p>On our Larapinta trips in Australia, our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Larapinta-Trail-Semi-Permanent-Eco-Camps" target="_blank">three-time award-winning campsites</a> continue to set the standard, incorporating new sustainable technologies including solar lighting systems and a hybrid grey water disposal system designed for the arid environment.</p> <p><img alt="Facilities at our eco camps | <i>#cathyfinchphotography</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="761585" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Brad/Cathy-Finch-photography/20200810_213918844_iOS-761585-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Brad/Cathy-Finch-photography/20200810_213918844_iOS-761585-###width###px.jpg"></p> <p>Where campsites aren’t used, we use comfortable, locally-owned accommodation to support the local economy and are eco-friendly and which often encourage communities to preserve their traditions so travellers can enjoy their downtime and feel great about it.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong>World Expeditions' active itineraries are crafted to minimise road travel and to maximize our travellers own power to get them from point A to B.</strong></span></p> </blockquote> <h4 id="6"><strong>Collectively raised over $7 million for charities worldwide</strong></h4> <p>Since its inception, our dedicated charity brand, <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Charity/Huma-Charity-Challenge" target="_blank">Huma Charity Challenge</a>, developed programmes that allow our Charity Challenger participants to run, cycle, trek or climb their way around the world whilst raising much-needed funds for important causes. <a href="https://www.humacharitychallenge.com/Find-a-Challenge" target="_blank">View various Charity Challenges you could take up ></a></p> <p><img alt="The Conquer Kozi team at the summit of Mount Kosciuszko | <i>Ayla Rowe</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="761591" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/HUMA-Challenge/Mt-Kosciuszko/Conquer-Kozi-2018-761591-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/HUMA-Challenge/Mt-Kosciuszko/Conquer-Kozi-2018-761591-###width###px.jpg"></p> <h4 id="7"><strong>Funding and supporting education projects in poor communities through our philanthropic arm, the World Expeditions Foundation</strong></h4> <p>Founded in 2007, the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/World-Expeditions-Foundation" target="_blank">World Expeditions Foundation</a> aims to improve the standard of living in poor and indigenous communities, largely through education-oriented projects from donations raised.</p> <p>It served Nepal very well after the earthquakes in 2015 where the generous flow of donations were able to relieve many people in the worst-hit regions with tin roofing, canvass and canopies as well as fuel and food to help them get through the earliest days of the disaster.</p> <p>One of the charity’s major programmes is the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2549/rebuild-nepal-community-project-in-photos" target="_blank">Rebuild Nepal Projects,</a> which continues to support the redevelopment of classrooms across remote mountain communities affected by those earthquakes.</p> <p>“It took sheer perseverance to see through the establishment of the World Expeditions Foundation to become a full DGR entity. That is, those donating to the foundation could receive a tax-deductible receipt which is a major propellant to heightening donations to create greater positive impacts with the projects we are supporting.” – Sue Badyari, CEO of World Expeditions Travel Group</p> <h4 id="8"><strong>Bringing tourism dollars to remote communities who have limited access to income from other sources</strong></h4> <p>Our unrivalled range of exploratory treks to remote destinations, like the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal-Regions/Great-Himalaya-Trail" target="_blank">Great Himalaya Trail</a>, spread tourism dollars to local communities that benefit from travellers visiting.</p> <p>Partnering with local operators and hiring local guides and leaders sees our traveller’s dollars investing in these local economies. It’s a fantastic way our travellers can give back to the communities they visit and better spread out the positive and negative impacts of tourism on the destination.</p> <p><img alt="Local people of western Nepal | <i>Lachlan Gardiner</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="761590" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/LachlanGardiner_WestNepal_2019_DSLR02_HIGHRES-1413-761590-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/LachlanGardiner_WestNepal_2019_DSLR02_HIGHRES-1413-761590-###width###px.jpg"></p> <h4 id="9"><strong>Pioneering regenerative travel which aims at positive social and environmental impact</strong></h4> <p>On top of our sustainable practices, we actively work to improve the destinations our travellers visit and essentially leave the place better than they found it. It’s about restoring and improving the health of the earth, not just maintaining it.</p> <p>As pioneers of the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Raft-Canoe-Kayak/Franklin-River-Rafting" target="_blank">Franklin River Rafting Expedition</a> in Tasmania’s World Heritage wilderness since 1978, our responsible travel practices has allowed future generations to experience it just as beautifully 40 years down the track.</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/3dpOqsFkPcM?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div> </div>   <p>On the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/activities/trekking-hiking/larapinta-trail-treks-australian-walks" target="_blank">Larapinta Trail</a>, as visitors on the sacred land, we work alongside the indigenous traditional owners and NT National Parks & Wildlife to allow clients to gain a deeper understanding of the need to conserve the Aboriginal cultures and respect their place and lifestyle in Australia. A partnership between the landscape and the campsites has been established to maintain respect for country, to enhance the sense of place and to provide a total environment experience of the Larapinta trek.</p> <p>Our Larapinta eco campsites provide shelter to our walking groups through a series of minimal impact structures and each campsite's semi-permanent design allows the land to recover during the off-season.</p> <h4 id="10"><strong>Became a founding member of the 10 Pieces Litter Collection</strong></h4> <p>Focusing on litter ‘hotspots’ on mountain trails, it is offered on treks in <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal" target="_blank">Nepal</a>, <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Bhutan" target="_blank">Bhutan</a> and <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Peru" target="_blank">Peru</a>, as well as the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Indonesia/Trekking-Hiking/Bali-Rinjani-Climb-Gili-Islands" target="_blank">Mount Rinjani</a> and <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Activities/Trekking-Hiking/Kilimanjaro-Treks" target="_blank">Mount Kilimanjaro</a> summit treks. This litter minimisation initiative and education lobby, helps supports the UN Sustainable Development Goal of climate action, through traveller engagement.</p> <p>As the only Australian tour operator of ‘<a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Responsible-Travel/10-Pieces" target="_blank">10 Pieces</a>’, this initiative encourages trekkers to pick up 10 pieces of litter each day. While ‘10’ may sound like a nominal number, it multiplies immensely through the collective power of a group of travellers.</p> <p class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/u0QD8ALQNtk?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></p> <h4 id="11"><strong>First company to develop a formalised animal welfare code of conduct</strong></h4> <p>Under the guidance of World Animal Protection, World Expeditions developed a 10-step ‘Animal Welfare in Tourism Code of Conduct’ on how to be an animal-friendly traveller and see wildlife in a responsible way that does not cause harm.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong>World Expeditions' animal welfare policy is an industry-leading step towards integrating animal welfare with broader responsible tourism</strong></span></p> </blockquote> <p style="text-align: right;">– <em>Nicola Beynon, World Animal Protection</em></p> <p>Most recently, we removed the Eagle Hunting Festival from its Mongolian programme, as part of its drive to ensure all its trips adhere to the strictest <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Animal-Welfare" target="_blank">standards of animal welfare</a>.</p> <h4 id="12"><strong>First company to stop offering orphanage tourism to prevent the unnecessary institutionalisation of children in developing countries</strong></h4> <p>All instances of orphanage tourism were removed from our itineraries in 2013, when research first revealed a direct link between the increase in the number of orphanages in developing nations and the increase in tourism numbers. Read more about <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Child-Safe-Tourism" target="_blank">Child Safe Tourism.</a></p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/xDOzyoQHQOs?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div>   <h4 id="13"><strong>Became founding supporters of the International Porter Protection Group</strong></h4> <p>Mountain porters are an integral part of each World Expeditions trekking or mountaineering adventure. We support the International Porter Protection Group, Porters' Progress UK and the International Mountain Explorers Connection and, to ensure safe working conditions, developed a dedicated ‘<a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Porter-Welfare" target="_blank">Porter Welfare Code of Conduct</a>’ for the porters it employs in Nepal, Peru, Papua New Guinea, Kenya and Tanzania.</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/8H3CqhS_sqg?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div>   <h4 id="14"><strong>Hosted a Thoughtful Travel Q&A</strong></h4> <p>The Q&A in March 2018 provided quality information and guidance on best sustainable travel practices and to inspire attendees to become stewards for travelling sustainably and responsibly. The live-streamed event featured expert panellists who discussed important responsible travel topics including ethical voluntourism, working conditions for porters in Nepal, voluntourism and why travellers should think twice before visiting an orphanage overseas. You can watch the discussion in the below video.</p> <p class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hiq6l3D0ddU?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></p> <h4 id="15"><strong>Were the first charter member of the ‘Peace Through Tourism’ campaign</strong></h4> <p>It aims to create awareness that the privilege of travelling provides a unique opportunity to learn more about Earth, the wonder of its natural beauty, and its many diverse peoples, cultures and heritage while fostering mutual respect, understanding and appreciation with each person we encounter in the process.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#949e17;"><strong>From animal welfare to child safe tourism, World Expeditions has always adopted and adhered to responsible and sustainable travel practices</strong></span></p> </blockquote> <h4 id="16"><strong>Successfully completed over 400 Youth Service Learning Programs, which tie in projects that aid communities and natural environments</strong></h4> <p>Through our youth brand, <a href="https://www.worldyouthadventures.com/" target="_blank">World Expeditions Schools</a>, we have committed to instilling service values in students and young travellers by providing Service Learning Programs guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals for schools across the globe – from renovating schools to assisting the upkeep of wildlife sanctuaries. <a href="https://www.worldyouthadventures.com/what-we-do/service-learning" target="_blank">Find out more > </a></p> <p><img alt="Painting at a community project in Nepal | <i>Greg Pike</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="761589" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Charities-_-Schools/World-Youth-Adventures/Community-Project-Everest-region-Nepal-761589-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Charities-_-Schools/World-Youth-Adventures/Community-Project-Everest-region-Nepal-761589-###width###px.jpg"></p> <h4 id="17"><strong>An ongoing commitment to improve through the power of partnerships</strong></h4> <p>We continually collaborate and seek guidance from a range of expert organisations, including World Animal Protection, ReThink Orphanages, 10 Pieces, South Pole Group, Leave No Trace, World Peace Tours and the International Porter Protection Group. This ensures that our travel philosophy and in-field operations reflect up-to-date sustainable practices.</p> <p>As said by American novelist, poet, environmental activist and farmer, Wendell Barry: “The earth is what we all have in common.”</p> <p>Together, we can foster change and instil greener and smarter travel behaviours to protect our planet's most vulnerable destinations and transform tourism's impact on nature and communities.</p> <p>Let’s continue to do our part to leave a positive impact and use thoughtful travel to not only see the world, but to make it a better home.</p> <p><em></em></p> <p><em>Published 30 November 2020. Last updated 20 April 2021.</em></p> <p><em></em></p> 3630On the Couch with Jean Claude Razelhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/5520/on-the-couch-with-jean-claude-razelActivities,Adventure Travel,Community,Guides and staff,News,Thoughtful TravelWed, 02 Sep 2020 04:34:00 GMT<p>In 2022, Chamonix based Jean-Claude 'JC' Razel burst onto the sustainability scene when he delivered his keynote talk, Fire: Our World In Transition, at the Adventure Travel Trade World Summit in Lugano, Switzerland.</p> <p>The key takeaway from his talk? Razel said that as an industry we need, “A transition narrative for tourism – less is better.” Looking ahead to a future that is decarbonised, local, and educational, he challenged the industry: “Don’t sell what customers want. Start selling what destinations need.”</p> <p>It's a talk that every traveller needs to hear, that's why we're sponsoring his special online event on World Tourism Day, 27 September 2023, where he will deliver a tailored version of his passionate speech outlining how you, as a traveller, can help shape the future of adventure travel. <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Info-nights-events/Event-Details/EventCode/HVCBBLDU">Register for the event here.</a></p> <p>In the meantime, get to know one of the leading minds in sustainable travel, who is making the bold call for travel companies to reprioritise their offerings - based less on what consumers want and more on what destinations need and demanding positive impact over profit.</p> <h2>Describe yourself in five words.</h2> <p><br /> •    Enthusiastic<br /> •    Creative<br /> •    Active<br /> •    Committed<br /> •    Determined.</p> <h2> </h2> <h2>What is an achievement you are most proud of?</h2> <p>That's an easy one. Without a doubt my two daughters are my greatest achievement.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="A dynamic visionary challenging the zeitgeist" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="2440785" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Jean-Claude-Razel-2440785-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Jean-Claude-Razel-2440785-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <h2> </h2> <h2>Do you have a life motto?</h2> <p>In the end, all is good. If it's not good, it's because it's not the end.  </p> <h2> </h2> <h2>What is the best travel advice someone has given you?</h2> <p>Go slow – focus on building a connection to local people cultures, food, and music. It has become more than just advice for me, it has become a travel philosophy, and a large basis of the webinar I will deliver on World Tourism Day, 27 September, for World Expeditions.</p> <h2> </h2> <h2>How do you minimise your impact when you travel?</h2> <p>I really try very hard to ensure I do not take any internal flights when visiting a destination. I like to be active and travel under my own steam. Trekking or cycling provides the option to minimise internal vehicle transport - ensuring a low carbon footprint and taking the pressure off local infrastructure. It also ensures you stay more local and soak in a destination rather than trying to tick off too many boxes in one visit.</p> <p> </p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Jean Claude Razel at the Adventure Travel Trade World Summit" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="2440786" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Jean-Claude-Razel-2440786-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/Jean-Claude-Razel-2440786-###width###px.jpg" /></div> <h2> </h2> <h2>How do you define ‘adventure travel’? </h2> <p>No schedule, no daily program. Complete freedom and flexibility.</p> <h2> </h2> <h2>Three items you pack for every trip?</h2> Of course there is all the normal gear you need when on an outdoor adventure, however I always ensure that I have packed: <ol> <li>Headlamp</li> <li>Poetry book</li> <li>Sunblock</li> </ol> <h2> </h2> <h2>What are the key factors you consider when selecting an adventure travel destination?</h2> <p>Is it close? I like to try and stay local.</p> <p>Do we have good maps? We all need to know where we are going, right?!</p> <p>Are the people friendly? This is the case the majority of the time but it is good to double check before deciding.</p> 5520Need excess baggage on your Lukla flight? We'll take care of thathttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/2454/nepal-excess-baggage-charges-coveredNepal,NewsWed, 01 Jul 2020 06:26:00 GMT<p><strong>Permanent eco-campsites, hygienically prepared meals, well-paced itineraries to maximise your chance for acclimatisation – now trekkers to Nepal have yet another reason to travel with us: we'll cover five kilos of excess baggage charges on internal Nepal flights to Lukla or Jomsom, raising your check-in allowance from 10 to 15 kilograms.</strong></p> <p>Having excess baggage allowance can be a godsend when trying to fit your trekking gear to cover two or even three weeks of travel. The task can be overwhelming when it comes down to packing your suitcase, that was allowed 20kg+ on the international flight, into a duffel bag that, until now, could only hold up to 10 kilograms due to the airline weight restrictions.</p> <p>This is currently the case for the Lukla and Jomsom sectors in Nepal where only 10 kilograms check-in baggage is allowed and exceeding this weight will cost you extra.</p> <p>“I found packing the night before a really stressful experience,” says Ayla Rowe, a Sydney staff member who travelled to Nepal last year.</p> <p>Choosing between whether to bring an extra woollen jumper or a spare pair of boots can make packing only essential items a tricky dilemma. Soon the list of items you planned to bring along are sitting outside of your suitcase as you strive to be the most minimalist traveller as possible.</p> <p><em>How can my hiking boots be this heavy? Should I really bring along three novels on this trip? How many beanies do I really need?</em></p> <p>For Ayla, she ended up filling all her pockets with lollies and snacks on the plane to try and squeeze in as much as possible – and avoid paying the excess fee.</p> <blockquote> <p>Fortunately, World Expeditions will now pay up to five kilograms of baggage excess, bringing your check-in allowance to 15 kilograms, alongside your additional five kilograms carry on.</p> </blockquote> <p>Keep in mind, however, that your provided kit bags – which include your own jacket, sleeping bag, liner, and the bag itself – comes in at around five to six kilos and should be counted in the above allowance.</p> <p>Also important, is aiming to have your gear no heavier than 15 kilograms to ensure porters are not overloaded.</p> <h2>So, how much difference can 5kg really make to your trip?</h2> <p><img alt="" class="responsiveImageLimited" src="/Portals/World Expeditions/LiveBlog/WP-Images/Everest_Circuit_and_Cho_La_Pass-original-225x300.jpg" width="280" /><span class="blogImageCaption">An extra 5kgs can make your camping experiences a little more comfortable</span></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>1. No stress packing</strong> – Travelling light doesn’t have to be restrictive. Knowing that you can bring along more gear you thought you would’ve had to leave behind can take the stress out of packing.</p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>2. Extra comforts</strong> – You can bring along some comfort items that can make days on a remote trek easier. Carry a spare pair of boots or walking shoes in case your soles fall off, and there’s no harm in bringing additional layers of clothes especially when trekking in high altitudes.</p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>3. More clothes for longer trips</strong> – Though shorter trips are easier to pack for; longer expeditions make it much harder to squeeze all your essential items for the duration of your trek.</p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>4. Save on buying the items you had to leave behind</strong> – While you can purchase items at your arrival destination, often the quality of the items you buy and time spent shopping for what you need can be an unnecessary expense, especially when you know you have the items at home.</p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>5. Bring along your gadgets</strong> – Bring spare batteries or extra camera accessories to capture the amazing spectacle of the Himalayan peaks.</p> <h2>Packing suggestions to take advantage of your 5kg</h2> <p>We asked our team what they would have brought if they had the luxury of extra baggage at no additional cost, here’s what they had to say:</p> <blockquote> <p>“Extra room might have meant an extra pair of trek trousers. It was pretty wet and hard to dry out clothes when camping.” – Kerren Knighton</p> </blockquote> <p style="padding-left: 30px;">•   “A book, a luxury toiletry item – some nice face or hand cream, pair of thongs to get into after a long day’s trek, a nice pair of binoculars to capture the soaring eagle up on the flanks of Everest, and my favourite trail snacks. Plus, any extra clothes you thought you might have to skimp on to get your pack weight under 10kg! Extra undies, pair of socks, favourite t-shirt, pants etc” – Kate Harper</p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;">•   “What I left behind, but wish I had, is my solar charger. Definitely needed this but it didn’t make the cut along with: comfy track pants for the evening, my Kindle so that I had unlimited books, and a trail mix." – Ayla Rowe</p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;">•   “Yak Wool jumpers with fleece on the inside, which can be bought in Kathmandu ($20) and weigh at least 2-3kgs. Amazingly warm and perfect for nights at altitude! I have five or so at home." – Josh Montag</p> <p style="padding-left: 30px;">•   "I wouldn’t have had to wear my boots on the flight, could have just packed them instead" – Scott Pinnegar</p> <p><em><strong>If you had extra baggage allowance what would you bring along to your trek?</strong></em></p> 2454Lend a Hand Appeal: support local staff, guides & portershttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3459/lend-a-hand-appealCommunity,Guides and staff,News,Thoughtful TravelTue, 02 Jun 2020 00:33:09 GMT<p><big><strong> Our friends in Nepal, Peru, India, Tanzania and Kenya – the guides, porters and administration staff that were the backbone of your last World Expeditions adventure – are in need.</strong></big></p> <p>COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on all of us who derive an income from travel and tourism, equating to millions of jobs lost or at risk in an industry that was just a short time ago a global economic and social force.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#666666;"><strong>During a pandemic the marginalised are not only at greater risk of catching the virus but they are also most likely to suffer the worst effects of the economic downturn.</strong></span></p> </blockquote> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://lendahand.gofundraise.com.au/payments/donate/beneficiary/1424" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Donate now<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <p>It's heartbreaking to hear how, for most of those nations, there has been little to no government support and this has impacted the livelihoods of guides, drivers, porters, cooks and staff members behind the scenes.</p> <p>The trickle down effect on their community and families has caused much fear and anxiety for what many will see as a bleak future ahead while COVID-19 plays out.</p> <blockquote> <p><strong><span style="color:#666666;">The wonderful individuals who have given us so much joy in our travels, are soon to be without income.</span></strong></p> </blockquote> <p>You can help by donating to the World Expeditions Foundation’s <a href="https://lendahand.gofundraise.com.au/" target="_blank">Lend a Hand Appeal</a> and 100% of funds distributed to the recipients intended and no administration fees withheld.</p> <h2>Who will your donations support?</h2> <p>In line with the mandate of the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/World-Expeditions-Foundation" target="_blank">World Expeditions Foundation</a>, 100% of donations from the appeal will be dispersed to our local partners and their employees in Nepal, Peru, India, Tanzania and Kenya.</p> <p>These individuals include the field and office team – the guides, porters, drivers, cooks and administration staff.</p> <p>Please lend a hand today and help make a difference. World Expeditions has kicked off the fundraising with a $AUD1000 donation. </p> <p>*Donations over $2 made by Australian residents will receive a tax-deductible receipt.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><a href="https://lendahand.gofundraise.com.au/payments/donate/beneficiary/1424" target="_blank"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Make a donation<em class="icon-arrow-right-thin"></em></button></a></p> <p><em></em></p> <p><strong>UPDATE</strong>: So far more than 600 food and hygiene care packages have been distributed since October 2020 to stricken communities in Nepal, Kenya, Tanzania, India and Peru. Read more about how the first round of funds were distributed <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/lend-a-hand-appeal-update" target="_blank">here</a>.<em></em></p> <p><em>Post last updated 13 October 2020.</em></p> 3459The Larapinta Trail: a spotlight on ancient Australiahttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3455/larapinta-trail-ancient-australia-northern-territoryActivities,Cultural Journeys,Trekking/Walking,Destinations,Australia, New Zealand &amp; the Pacific,Australia,NewsWed, 27 May 2020 01:33:00 GMT<p>Most people lucky enough to have walked all or part of the 223km Larapinta Trail in the West MacDonnell Ranges, near Alice Springs, would agree it’s the combination of stunning scenery and the rich Indigenous history which make the Larapinta one of the most popular multi-day walks in Australia today.</p> <p>There's the physical beauty of the many waterholes and gorges. The spectacular mountain ranges that contrast so sharply with the endless flat nothingness that we traditionally associate with a desert landscape.</p> <blockquote> <p><strong><span style="color:#555555;">Then there's the palpable feeling of ancientness and the knowledge that you are walking in the footsteps of people belonging to one of the longest continuing cultures on the planet.</span></strong><em><strong></strong></em></p> </blockquote> <p>Home to the Arrernte (pronounced Ah-runda) people, whose ancestors have inhabited the region for around 40,000 years, the Larapinta is part of Tyurrentye (as the area is known to the Traditional Owners) and is a living landscape with deep spiritual significance to the 16 traditional estates that make up the area.</p> <p>The whole area abounds with sacred sites, archaeological sites and many dreaming tracks (or 'songlines' as they are commonly known), such as the taye (moon man) dreaming that takes place between Mt Sonder and Glen Helen Gorge.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Guide explaining some of the history of the Larapinta Trail | <i>Linda Murden</i>" class="responsiveImage" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Northern-Territory/Larapinta-Trail_-Norther-Territory-661629-1100px.jpg" /> <img alt="The breathtaking Glen Helen Gorge on the Larapinta Trail in Central Australia. | <i>Ayla Rowe</i>" class="responsiveImage" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Northern-Territory/Larapinta-Trail_-Northern-Territory_-Australia.-661625-1100px.jpg" /> <img alt="The Ochre Pits are a special site where Aboriginal people quarried ochre for trade and traditional artist use | <i>Graham Michael Freeman</i>" class="responsiveImage" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Northern-Territory/Great-Walks-of-Australia-Classic-Larapinta-Trek-661628-1100px.jpg" /> <img alt="Sunrise on Mt Sonder from Fearless's Camp | <i>Rachel Imber</i>" class="responsiveImage" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Northern-Territory/Larapinta-Trail-MacDonnell-Ranges-Northern-Territory-661626-1100px.jpg" /> <img alt="Ellery Creek swimmimg hole | <i>Latonia Crockett</i>" class="responsiveImage" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Northern-Territory/Larapinta-Trail_-Northern-Territory-661627-1100px.jpg" /></carouselsource></div>   <p>Perhaps it’s the echo of those Dreamtime stories, told so often over thousands of years that have permeated the landscape, but there’s a palpable ancientness that many find quite moving. Many marine fossils found high on the West MacDonnell Ranges prove that an inland sea once covered Central Australia and provide geological evidence of this ancientness.</p> <p>There’s no doubt that the connection with the land is a big part of what’s special about the Larapinta and leading tour operator, World Expeditions, is a strong supporter of collaborating with the local Indigenous community to help clients gain a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture.</p> <p>The <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Trekking-Hiking/Classic-Larapinta-Trek-in-Comfort">Classic Larapinta Trek in Comfort,</a> for example, allow trekkers to sample delicious locally grown food and learn about their traditional uses by local Indigenous chef, Rayleen Brown, from Kungkas Can Cook. There’s also a chance to hear Dreamtime stories told by a member of the local Indigenous community in a “Cultural Conversation Experience” on some departures.</p> <p>But how did the Larapinta become one of the Great Walks of Australia and named in National Geographic’s 100 Hikes of a Lifetime when, less than 25 years ago, it was largely unknown to non-Indigenous people?</p> <h2>A walk to remember</h2> <p>The transition began with a visit from a humble Himalayan guide by the name of Charlie Holmes, who first visited the region during the early ’90s.  Charlie was mesmerized with the beauty of the Larapinta Trail and immediately recognized its commercial potential. His enthusiasm for the trail was infectious and, fortuitously, he was well respected by the adventure travel company, World Expeditions, for whom he’d guided in Nepal.</p> <p>World Expeditions has a long-established history of pioneering new trips, introducing to the Australian market firsts such as cycling holidays in India (1977) and China (1978) and trekking trips in Mongolia (1980). It didn’t hesitate to support Charlie’s vision to begin operating guided trekking expeditions to the Larapinta in 1995.</p> <p>While Charlie and World Expeditions nutted out logistics of operating those first treks in the remote desert environment, the Trail was still being developed by the forward-looking Parks and Wildlife Commission of the NT, initially to establish a long-distance trail along the spine of the elongated West MacDonnell National Park.</p> <p>By the time the full length of the 223km trail was completed in 2002, many sections by low-security prisoners from the NT Correctional Services, the route had been adapted to take the modern route – and Charlie knew it well.</p> <p>From day one, the Larapinta was popular amongst trekkers, with word of mouth recommendations driving growth. By 2005, the Larapinta Trail had become World Expeditions’ highest-selling itinerary worldwide, establishing a base in Alice Springs and employing a team of professional guides.</p> <p style="background: rgb(238, 238, 238) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 5px 10px;"><span style="color:#555555;">LARAPINTA TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS:<br />   •  Counts Point – a 5km ridgeline walk that offers extensive views of 100km in every direction<br />   •  The Ochre Pits – a traditional Aboriginal quarry for ceremonial Ochre, in a range of colours from white to yellow, orange and red.<br />   •  Serpentine Gorge – a stunning gorge cut in the red quartzite cliffs near Charlie’s Camp.<br />   •  Ormiston Gorge – widely considered the most spectacular in the West Macs. (The 10km Gorge walk is not officially part of the Larapinta Trail but is one of the best short walks in the NT)<br />   •  Mt Sonder – the summit of which is a wonderful place to witness the sunrise as the sun’s rays spread across the vast folds of the ranges.</span></p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/jDibQFLhB70?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div>   <h2>Get comfy</h2> <p>The idea of establishing a <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Larapinta-Trail-Semi-Permanent-Eco-Camps">network of semi-permanent, eco campsites</a> to sustainably manage the increasing demand was first floated around this time but, with so many stakeholders involved, the idea remained on the back burner for several years, until the ownership of the West MacDonnell National Park was returned to the Aboriginal Traditional Owners in 2012.</p> <p>With the Park being jointly managed by NT Parks and Wildlife Commission and the Traditional owners, negotiation of an exclusive sub-lease agreement progressed and the eco camps were completed in 2013, allowing World Expeditions’ <a href="http://larapintatrailwalk.com.au/">Larapinta product</a> to meet the criteria to become one of the founding seven “Great Walks of Australia”, supported by Tourism Australia and the state Tourism bodies.</p> <blockquote> <p><strong><span style="color:#555555;">Designed by the late Nick Murcutt of Neeson-Murcutt Architects, the </span><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Larapinta-Trail-Semi-Permanent-Eco-Camps"><span style="color:#555555;">eco campsites</span></a><span style="color:#555555;"> set a new international benchmark by providing superior standards of service and comfort for trekkers in outback regions, thereby opening the experience to greater numbers of people, who may not have been ready to take on a wilderness camping based trek.</span></strong></p> </blockquote> <p>The design incorporates sustainable technologies such as water-free composting toilets, solar lighting systems and a hybrid grey water disposal system designed for the arid environment.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="The stars of the desert sky are a stunning backdrop to our unique Semi-Permanent Campsites | <i>Graham Michael Freeman</i>" class="responsiveImage" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Northern-Territory/Great-Walks-of-Australia-Classic-Larapinta-Trek-661622-1100px.jpg" /> <img alt="Soak up the sounds of the desert around our campfire | <i>Shaana McNaught</i>" class="responsiveImage" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Northern-Territory/Relaxing-around-the-campfire-661624-1100px.jpg" /> <img alt="Trekkers relaxing on the porch of their campsites | <i>Shaana McNaught</i>" class="responsiveImage" src="/croppedImages/Australasia/Northern-Territory/Fearless-Campsite-661621-1100px.jpg" /></carouselsource></div> <p>The camps are semi-permanent and are dismantled in the off-season, to allow the land to recover, maintaining the idyllic natural setting of these wilderness sites.</p> <p>The lounge is designed to keep occupants comfortable in a climate known for extremes, with a moveable stretch canopy providing a cool shady open-sided haven, while also offering a warm shelter during cool nights with the sides pulled down. Cafe style gas burners along with open fire provide heating at night and a commercial standard cooking area allows guides to prepare delicious meals. Hot showers give trekkers a welcome way to wash away the dust of a good days walk on the Larapinta Trail.</p> <h2>The next step</h2> <p>Today, the Larapinta campsites are operated by <a href="https://www.australianwalkingholidays.com/">Australian Walking Holidays</a>, the domestic brand of World Expeditions and, this year, the company celebrates 25 years on the Larapinta Trail. A testament to the quality of the guiding team and the experience itself, the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Australia/Trekking-Hiking/Classic-Larapinta-Trek-in-Comfort">Classic Larapinta Trek in Comfort</a> remains the company’s top-selling trip.</p> <p>According to Australian Walking Holidays’ General Manager, Michael Buggy, long-term partnerships remain at the heart of the Larapinta experience:</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#555555;"><strong>As well as the ongoing collaborations with the Arrernte people and with the Parks and Wildlife Commission of the NT that underpin the whole operation, there have been some very significant contributions from individuals along the way that helped shape the Larapinta experience that we are able to share with people today.</strong></span></p> </blockquote> <p>“The camps have been named Charlie’s Camp, Nick’s Camp and Fearless Camp as a tribute to some of these wonderful people who played a pivotal role in their inception,” says Michael.</p> <p>“Fearless Camp, close to Mount Sonder, seemed a very apt commemoration of the late Sue Fear and her life as a mountaineer and guide, and the fourth and newest of the camps is Sonder Camp, named for its sweeping views of the mountain.”<br /> <br /> The four eco-camps are positioned along the trail, as a kind of moving basecamp, which allows walkers to carry only a day pack, with luggage transported by 4WD vehicles between camps.<br /> <br /> Last season, Australian Walking Holidays employed 23 guides on the Larapinta Trail – 12 women and 11 men, each of whom bring a love of the land and a warmth that empowers people who walk the trail with them.<br /> <br /> “As a participant on the walk, you can expect to have the luxury of being fully present in a way that is not possible in our usual lives; to engage all your senses and be humbled by the beauty of your surrounds and the knowledge that people have preceded you on this walk for millennia,” Michael says.</p> <blockquote> <p><strong><span style="color:#555555;">In addition to being a three times recipient of the </span><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/larapinta-trek-brolga-ecotourism-award-winner"><span style="color:#555555;">NT Tourism’s Brolga Award</span></a><span style="color:#555555;"> for best eco-tourism product, the Classic Larapinta Trek in Comfort is a 100% carbon offset trip, with emissions offset by Australian Walking Holidays, as part of our ongoing commitment to sustainable travel.</span></strong></p> </blockquote> <p>“We remain mindful that it’s thanks to the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the Central and Western Arrernte Country, that we have the opportunity to explore and enjoy this ancient landscape,” says Michael, “and we hope that the experience ultimately helps build understanding and respect for their place as Custodians of the land.”</p> <p><em>This edited article was originally published in <a href="https://www.greatwalks.com.au/?utm_source=World%20Expeditions&utm_medium=hyperlink&utm_campaign=Blog&utm_content=Larapinta">Great Walks Magazine</a>, April-May 2020.</em></p> <p><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/activities/trekking-hiking/larapinta-trail-treks-australian-walks"><button class="btn btn-borders world-ex mr-xs mb-sm" type="button">Find your Larapinta Trail walk</button></a></p> 3455Stay safe, but keep dreaming BIGhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3378/stay-safe-but-keep-dreaming-bigAdventure Travel,Community,Traveller Stories,News,Thoughtful Travel,ActivitiesWed, 08 Apr 2020 01:07:00 GMT<p><em><strong>When reality gets too much, dreams help us to survive.</strong></em></p> <p>Who would have thought that we would be sitting here today in a world that changed overnight?</p> <p>Where today is an incredibly different today from yesterday, and where tomorrow still brings with it many unknowns.</p> <p>Some of us relish in the adventure, grabbing it with both hands, excited for the changes and adapting to the new reality to explore. Some of us struggle to adapt, living with the fear of the unknown, anxious, uncertain and wondering: what next? No matter where you sit right now on this current new adventure we are all in this together.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#666666;">So take a moment. Breathe in. Sit back and dream for a moment of where you might want to go to next. </span></p> </blockquote> <p>It seems that as kids, we were better at dreaming than what we are now. We would go into our own world where we would think about who we would marry, what kind of house we would live in, whether we would have a cat or a dog, what we would do when we grew up, what kind of cake we would have for our birthday, and well, what exotic destinations we would travel to.</p> <p>For some of us, it was a rocket to the moon. For others, it was camping during the holidays along the river. No matter how big or small, we dreamed and for that moment; we escaped our reality. The game of life was ours and we could make it whatever we wanted.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#666666;">As I sit and think about where to next, I think about the amazing trips of the past. That cycle trip down the Danube on a beautiful Spring day in Europe. Blue skies, and bitter ice-cold days with pelting rain. </span></p> </blockquote> <p>Cycling along one of the most well-known rivers in <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Europe" target="_blank">Europe</a>. Peering over stone walls into village gardens, trying not to be nosey, but interested in what lay over that stone wall.</p> <p>Stopping for coffee and pastries at one of the many bakeries and patisseries along the way or my favourite, discovering the amazing flavour of poppyseed ice-cream which for a lover of poppyseed was heaven. Also discovering a new favourite soup, Baerlauchcremesuppe, (Wild Garlic Soup), all of the flavour, none of the pungency.</p> <p>Peering through stained glass windows of old churches and reading the headstones in the historic and gothic looking graveyards trying to work out their stories. And well, who could forget Vienna!</p> <p>Then there were those trips to <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Africa" target="_blank">Africa</a>. A real eye-opener and honestly, never really on my bucket list. From the best of the best on offer in <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/South-Africa" target="_blank">South Africa</a>, including seeing the slum life of Soweto, delving into the history of humankind, sampling delectable South African wines and local produce in Franschoek, experiencing 5-star game lodges and drives in <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Kruger+National+Park" target="_blank">Kruger</a>, the native fauna of Grootbosch and much more. To 4WD game drives in the forests of <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Tanzania" target="_blank">Tanzania</a> and the well know Ngorongoro Crater with wildlife everywhere you could possibly see.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#666666;">Of course, one of the main dreams that became reality was <a href="http://worldexpeditions.com/Activities/Trekking-Hiking/Kilimanjaro-Treks" target="_blank">climbing Kilimanjaro</a>. Taking each step on that final night, in the pitch, black darkness, with not much left in the tank. Crying. Thinking what on earth are we doing. Eating gummy bears. </span></p> </blockquote> <p>But you haven’t seen a sunrise, until you are standing on the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Activities/Trekking-Hiking/Kilimanjaro-Treks" target="_blank">roof of Africa,</a> seeing it raise its head over the continent. Bringing with it the warmth and the utter joy that you need.</p> <p>Perhaps the adventure is in the mystery of the land and its people such as my trip along the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Silk-Road-Tours" target="_blank">Silk Road</a>. Stories vaguely recall from history lessons past, but nothing much known about the people or the landscape of these lands.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#666666;">I learnt that trekking in the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Tajikistan/Trekking-Hiking/Fann-Mountains-Trek-Silk-Road-Cities" target="_blank">Fann Mountains</a> is by far one of the most scenic in the world. Stunning vistas. Crystal clear blue lakes. </span></p> </blockquote> <p>Amazing mountain surrounds from atop the high passes and incredibly friendly locals who pull up to your tent and you’re not entirely sure if they are out to rob you, or chat – chat it was in our combined Russian, Tajik and Croatian dialects. The people are incredibly friendly.</p> <p>Melons, cucumbers and tomatoes are a staple. But you will never have a peach as tasty as you will in <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Uzbekistan" target="_blank">Uzbekistan</a>, nor see such intricate buildings and architecture.</p> <p>Some of us might want the rough and rugged. The untouched landscapes that are shaped by ice, wind and geology on a journey to the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Antarctica-The-Arctic" target="_blank">Arctic Circle</a>, where the weather is unpredictable and the wildlife even more so. The scenery changes on a daily basis.</p> <p>The journey onboard a small ship has a planned day to day schedule, yet the plan gets thrown out the window depending on what the day brings.</p> <p>Where you think you might see a Polar Bear, only to have the crew describe what you might actually see is just a cream dot in a ‘Where’s Wally’ type of photo. But where all your landings are aborted due to the abundance of Polar Bears.</p> <p>Where you experience them on ice on a perfectly blue sky day or see them on ice in full-blown blizzard conditions.</p> <p>Or witness a real take your breath away moment, seeing them feeding on a walrus carcass on land, whilst you sit in utter silence on a small boat, which bobs up and down as you try to take the perfect shot, careful as to not drop your camera or make a peep.</p> <p>Where nature owns the landscape and the itinerary.</p> <p>There is still so much on the travel dream list. The pyramids and ancient cities of <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Mexico/Adventure-Touring/Highlights-of-Mexico" target="_blank">Mexico</a>, (as well as eating proper guacamole). The flavours and <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?pageNumber=1&pageSize=15&categories=PRT%2CESP&searchKeywords=camino" target="_blank">pilgrimage trails of Spain and Portugal</a>. A trek through the amazing mountains of the <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search?searchKeywords=Canadian+Rockies" target="_blank">Canadian Rockies</a>. The wild landscapes and untouched regions of <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Argentinian-Regions/Patagonia" target="_blank">Patagonia</a>. . . my list goes on and on.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#666666;">We have never quite known what life is going to throw at us, and well, that is both the beauty and the adventure that is life. </span></p> </blockquote> <p>Sometimes we need the fantasy to survive the reality.</p> <p>So relax now. Take time to read that book, explore a country online, or learn a new language so that when I ask you in a few months time, you will be able to tell me: where to next?</p> <p><em>Published 8 April 2020. Words by Natalie Tambolash.</em></p> <p><em>This article is featured in <a href="https://adventuremagazine.co.nz/" target="_blank"><span style="color:null;">Adventure Magazine New Zealand</span></a><span style="color:null;">. </span><strong><a href="https://www.yumpu.com/en/embed/view/GSP4OkhNgIspeYiU" target="_blank"><span style="color:null;">Read the April 2020 issue online for free.</span></a></strong></em></p> <div style="background:#eeeeee;border:1px solid #cccccc;padding:5px 10px;"><a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/keep-dreaming-big" target="_blank">Want more inspiration? Here are some indoor ideas for the outdoor traveller to keep the dream alive >></a></div> <p> </p> 3378How to stay fit at homehttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3357/how-to-stay-fit-self-isolatingActivities,NewsThu, 19 Mar 2020 10:47:00 GMT<p>For many of us who are so used to heading outdoors and chasing adventures, maintaining a physically active lifestyle can be tricky when you are housebound.</p> <p>It's so important to continue moving and exercising to help boost your immune system and mental well-being. Here are some simple ideas to keep you moving and feeling lively.</p> <p>These tips can easily be incorporated in your training routine for <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/advanced-search" target="_blank">future adventure travel plans</a>.</p> <h2>1. Exercise in your backyard or local area</h2> <p>When you get up in the morning and before you start your day, go for a run, swim or cycle ride in your local area - the earlier, the better to avoid crowds. If you happen to be near a beach, the coast or a bay area, why not go for a brisk walk and welcome the sunrise over the water?</p> <p>If you plan to only stay at home, commence your day with some yoga stretches on your balcony or in your backyard. For those that aren't morning people, do a short workout before lunch as a midday boost. Why not try your hand at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/shortcuts/2020/mar/17/how-to-make-a-home-gym-from-household-items-while-self-isolating" target="_blank">making a home gym</a> from household items?</p> <h2>2. Do the 7-minute workout with a chair and a wall</h2> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Source: Daily Mail" class="responsiveImage responsiveImageWithLink" clickurl="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2322470/The-7-minute-workout-proven-good-long-run-weights-session--PAIN-reap-benefits.html" cropdataid="642121" dynamiccroppedimage="1" flexibleaspectratio="16x7" gaaction="" gacategory="" galabel="" gavalue="" largestloadedsize="1100" newtab="1" src="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/7-minute-workout-scheme-642121-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/7-minute-workout-scheme-642121-###width###px.jpg" /></div>   <p>Backed up by science – but only when you do them in the right order and so intensely that it is painful(!) – this workout scheme is said to give as many health benefits as going for a long run. Follow each exercise in the image for 30 seconds and then take a break of 10 seconds before starting the next. When you rapidly do these, it should only take seven minutes and all you need is a chair and a wall.</p> <h2>3. Do your chores in the house</h2> <p>For most people it's not the most pleasant activity, but chores in and around the house will still need to happen. So, get up and get your vacuum cleaner, turn on your washing machine, or give the windows a nice clean. It’ll burn some calories and help you keep moving.</p> <h2>4. Do your phone calls walking</h2> <p>Make, if possible, your phone calls walking. This way, you also won’t be distracted by emails coming in or other documents you were working on and it’s another way to get up and moving.</p> <h2>5. Take the stairs</h2> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Trekking up beautiful stone stairs in Gokyo Ri | <i>Angela Parajo</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="642123" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Bardo/Angela-Parajo-Nepal/Gokyo-Ri_-Nepal-642123-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Bardo/Angela-Parajo-Nepal/Gokyo-Ri_-Nepal-642123-###width###px.jpg" /></div>   <p>When leaving your home for grocery shopping, emptying your letter box or picking up a delivery, whether you’re on a higher floor in your building or at a town house, take the stairs - twice or even three times.</p> <p>Don't have staircases around? Use a step stool or a hardy box and do some step aerobics. There are plenty of online videos for body step workouts so you can still reach your daily 10,000 step count. Keep the workout interesting by playing some scenic videos on Youtube to stimulate a virtual outdoor experience.</p> <h2>6. Maintain basic circulation</h2> <p>You may be inclined to get up less when you’re at home, there’s no need to walk over to a colleague’s desk, go into a meeting or head out for lunch. It’s important to keep basic circulation going, so make sure to get up every 30 minutes and flex and rotate your lower leg when sitting. Walk, do jumping jacks or lunges around the house - even sporadically between breaks.</p> <p><em>Have more suggestions? Let us know in the comments below.</em></p> 3357Making informed travel decisions: helpful resourceshttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3337/helpful-travel-resoucesNewsWed, 11 Mar 2020 01:11:00 GMT<p><em><strong>Gaining information from credible and reliable sources is important when making a decision on your travel plans. Here are some helpful resources and links.</strong></em></p> <h3>Helpful resources</h3> <p> • World Expeditions develop robust risk strategies based on multiple sources, primarily the <a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank">World Health Organisation</a> and the <a href="https://www.dfat.gov.au/travel/Pages/travel.aspx" target="_blank">Australian Department of Foreign Affairs</a>. We encourage you to visit both websites.</p> <p> • Find regular updates to the <a href="http://worldexpeditions.com/travel-advisory">Travel Advisory section</a> of the World Expeditions website.</p> <p> • Johns Hopkins University in the US has a <a href="https://gisanddata.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6" target="_blank">map with helpful facts</a> on the coronavirus cases.</p> <h3>Links to advisory pages</h3> <p> • Australia - <a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations" target="_blank">Smarttraveller Travel Advisories</a><br />  • Canada - <a href="https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories" target="_blank">Government of Canada Travel Advice & Advisories</a><br />  • New Zealand - <a href="https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/" target="_blank">Safetravel</a><br />  • United Kingdom - <a href="https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice" target="_blank">Foreign Office Travel Advice</a><br />  • United States - <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/" target="_blank">Department of State Travel Advisories</a></p> <p>World Expeditions has been operating adventures across the globe for 45 years and, during that time, we have experienced and overcome many natural and man-made adversities. We have well developed and tested risk strategies for these very occurrences, utilising information from reliable sources and local knowledge on the ground.</p> <p>At the end of the day, each individual trip is different and each person has their own view of what an acceptable level of safety means for them. Read more about the different <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Blog/travel-advice-alerts-and-warnings-explained" target="_blank">travel advisory levels</a> in Australia and what they mean.</p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#a2ad00;"><strong>Pro-tip:</strong> only trust information from credible sources and be wary of the information circulated and even intensified across social media channels.</span></p> </blockquote> <p>We encourage you to <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Contact-Us">get in touch</a> if you want to learn more about how safe it is to travel to a destination you are considering.</p> <p><em>Updated 11 March 2020.</em></p> <p><em></em></p> 3337Lukla update: Flight changes when heading to the Everest regionhttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3133/lukla-update-flight-changes-everest-regionDestinations,Himalaya,Nepal,NewsMon, 17 Feb 2020 01:09:00 GMT<p>Flights between Kathmandu and Lukla have been suspended for international travellers, but fear not, we have you covered on how to get to Lukla with ease.</p> <p>To reach Lukla, the gateway to the Everest trekking region, flights are now departing from and arriving at Ramechap airport, rather than Kathmandu airport. The new routing, which was introduced to reduce congestion at Kathmandu airport, is again in place from 16 March to 15 May 2020. The aviation authority have yet to determine arrangements from September to December 2020.</p> <p>The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal issued the following statement:</p> <blockquote> <p>Due to increment in traffic congestion at TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport) and increasing number of Lukla flights from TIA, an arrangement was made to operate all Lukla flights from Ramechap airport in this summer season which was accomplished successfully.</p> <p>During tourist season, Lukla is the busiest airport among STOL airfields operated from Kathmandu. Therefore, to avoid traffic congestion and minimize the load of TIA and to ease other international operation from TlA, all airlines operating in Lukla sector are required to operate from Ramechap airport henceforth you are required to manage all formalities in this regard.</p> </blockquote> <h3>Who is affected?</h3> <p>This change affects all travel companies operating tours in Nepal, and we assure you we have explored a range of alternatives, including utilizing helicopters, which has been discounted due to exorbitant costs and availability limitations.</p> <p>While there is one operational flight from Kathmandu to Lukla each day, it is reserved for Nepali locals, and airlines are restricted from selling tickets to agents or to individuals who are not Nepali citizens.</p> <h3>It’s not all bad news</h3> <p>Some operators have varied their itineraries to have clients depart Kathmandu by vehicle at 2am, to reach Ramechap in time for the first morning flights to Lukla. World Expeditions has rejected this option because it makes for a very long first day of trekking. Instead, we are taking trekkers to Ramechap for an overnight stay in our comfortable and conveniently located campsite in order to take the first morning flights to Lukla.</p> <p><img alt="Ramechap tent set-up | <i>Angela Parajo</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="524955" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="200" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Ramechap-campsite-524955-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Ramechap-campsite-524955-###width###px.jpg" /></p> <p>Although there are afternoon flights to Lukla from Ramechap, these are unreliable because there is a higher chance of these flights being cancelled due to weather conditions.</p> <p>We have revised our Everest itineraries in the wake of these circumstances.</p> <h3>Our modified itinerary:</h3> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><strong>Day 1</strong> – Arrival in Kathmandu. Free day.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><strong>Day 2</strong> – Overland drive to Ramechap (approximately 5 hours). You can do some last-minute gear shopping or enjoy some leisure time in the morning at Kathmandu after breakfast before we hit the road. En route we will stop for lunch and arrive at our campsite by late afternoon.</p> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><strong>Our private Ramechap campsite</strong> is equipped with up to 30 tents, dining tents and bathroom facilities with Western-style toilets and hand basins. Our trekkers enjoy full-board camping with a hearty, three-course evening meal cooked by our trained team at the campsite, with tea and breakfast the following day.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Ramechap campsite | <i>Angela Parajo</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="524956" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="200" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Ramechap-campsite-524956-200px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/Ramechap-campsite-524956-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="DSC_0090" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="524958" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="200" src="/croppedImages/Bardo/Luciana-EBC-MAR-2019/DSC_0090-524958-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Bardo/Luciana-EBC-MAR-2019/DSC_0090-524958-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="DSC_0087" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="524957" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="200" src="/croppedImages/Bardo/Luciana-EBC-MAR-2019/DSC_0087-524957-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Bardo/Luciana-EBC-MAR-2019/DSC_0087-524957-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="DSC_0092" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="524960" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="200" src="/croppedImages/Bardo/Luciana-EBC-MAR-2019/DSC_0092-524960-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Bardo/Luciana-EBC-MAR-2019/DSC_0092-524960-###width###px.jpg" /> <img alt="DSC_0086" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="524959" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="200" src="/croppedImages/Bardo/Luciana-EBC-MAR-2019/DSC_0086-524959-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Bardo/Luciana-EBC-MAR-2019/DSC_0086-524959-###width###px.jpg" /> </carouselsource></div> <p style="margin-left: 40px;"><strong>Day 3</strong> – Early morning flight to Lukla (2800m). Our campsite is directly opposite the runway, so you’ll have first flights to Lukla! You will then commence your trek to Ghat (2530m), the walk being approximately 2-3 hours.</p> <p>World Expeditions believes the option of staying in Ramechap is vastly better than departing Kathmandu at 2am, driving approximately 5 hours to Ramechap, flying to Lukla and then commencing trekking.</p> <p>Getting a reasonable night’s sleep and being able to travel on the earliest flights from Ramechap provides the best start to the trekking day.</p> <p>At the end of your trek, you will fly from Lukla to Ramechap and drive directly to Kathmandu on the same day. The rest of the afternoon will be at your leisure, offering an opportunity to do any additional sightseeing and shopping.</p> <p><em>Updated 17 February 2020.</em></p> 3133Image Gallery: Everest Eco-Comfort Campshttps://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/5605/image-gallery-everest-eco-comfort-campsDestinations,Himalaya,Nepal,NewsWed, 29 Jan 2020 04:13:00 GMT<p>We're giving our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Nepal-Eco-Comfort-Camps" target="_blank">Eco-Comfort camps in Nepal</a> an upgrade!</p> <p>They were already much more comfortable than a traditional tent based trekking experience, but our local team has been busy adding some extra finishing touches so your experience is even more relaxed and memorable.</p> <p>Rather than staying in a small tent, our private Eco-Comfort Camps provide ample room and will appeal to your desire for those homey comforts whilst still enjoying the great outdoors, from a pre-furnished tent even the tallest trekker can stand in, sheltered communal facilities and access to a hot shower – a true luxury when out on the wilderness trails.</p> <p>Check out what you can look forward to on your next <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal-Regions/Everest" target="_blank">trek in Nepal's Everest region </a>with us.</p> <h2><strong>LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION</strong></h2> <p>The views from all of our campsites are spectacular, but the higher up you go, like Dingboche, the more priceless the vistas from our exclusive locations become.</p> <p>Our Eco-Comfort Camps are only available to World Expeditions trekkers. We've tweaked the locations of some tents for better outlooks and added prayer flags for a more immersive experience.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/wmAMTNlmL2g?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe><br />  </div> </div> </div>   <img alt="Our Dingboche Eco-Comfort Camp is surrounded by wonderful mountain vistas | <i>Sarah Higgins</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046284" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_7418-3046284-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_7418-3046284-###width###px.jpg" /><br />   <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="View a different angle of Ama Dablam from our Dingboche Eco-Comfort Camp | <i>Sarah Higgins</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3036661" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_7413-3036661-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_7413-3036661-###width###px.jpg" /><br />   <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="The view from our campsite in Kyangjuma is simply magnificent. You'll notice there is no one else around. | <i>Sarah Higgins</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046287" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_6875-3046287-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_6875-3046287-###width###px.jpg" /></div> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"> </div> <h2><strong>HOMIER COMFORTS</strong></h2> <p>Enjoy a warm brew or just enjoy the warmth of our communal dining areas, each showcasing a unique theme of why the Everest region is such a special destination.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="The dining room at our Kyangjuma Eco-Comfort Camp is the perfect place to enjoy a morning coffee, and a view of Ama Dablam | <i>Sarah Higgins</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046432" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_6845-3046432-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_6845-3046432-###width###px.jpg" /></div>  <br />   <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Enjoy some local seabuckthorn juice at our cosy Mountaineering themed Eco-Comfort Camp at Dingboche | <i>Sarah Higgins</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046433" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_7333-3046433-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_7333-3046433-###width###px.jpg" /><br />  </div>   <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Every camp has a theme, our Ghat Eco-Comfort Camp celebrates our amazing local leaders, Sherpa guides and cooks | <i>Sarah Higgins</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046434" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Brad/Everest-Camps---SH/IMG_6544-3046434-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Brad/Everest-Camps---SH/IMG_6544-3046434-###width###px.jpg" /></div>  <br />   <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Relax in locally themed comforts in our dining rooms | <i>Sarah Higgins</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046436" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_7190-3046436-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_7190-3046436-###width###px.jpg" /></div>  <br />   <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Every camp has a theme, our Ghat Eco-Comfort Camp celebrates our amazing local staff | <i>Sarah Higgins</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046437" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_6549-3046437-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_6549-3046437-###width###px.jpg" /></div> </div> <h2 class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><strong><br /> WHAT MAKES OUR CAMPS 'IN COMFORT'?</strong></h2> <p>Trekking is not everyones cup of yak butter tea, mainly because of camping in a tent as opposed to the physical effort of walking for multiple days.</p> <p>Our In Comfort treks in Nepal utilise our Eco-Comfort Camps, which are a BIG step up from a camping style trek. Expect basic creature comforts like raised beds, a warm shower and even western style sit-down toilets. If you're an experienced trekker you'll appreciate how these are true comforts when out in the wilderness.</p> <p>Hygienically prepared meals served in uncrowded, warm and clean communal areas, your health and safety is our priority and many comforts delivered in the background help towards ensuring you stay healthy and safe while trekking in Nepal.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Enjoy roomy tents featuring raised beds, mattresses and pillow. Sure beats sleeping on a thin mat | <i>Sue Badyari</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046438" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/IMG_3495-3046438-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/IMG_3495-3046438-###width###px.jpg" /></div> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><br /> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Western style sit-down toilets are a huge luxury in the Everest region! | <i>Sarah Higgins</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046439" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_6516-3046439-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Blogs/WEX/IMG_6516-3046439-###width###px.jpg" /></div>  <br />   <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Start your day with a warm cup of tea or coffee delivered to your tent | <i>Sue Badyari</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046440" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/IMG_3130-3046440-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/IMG_3130-3046440-###width###px.jpg" /><br /> <br />   <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><img alt="Stay healthy thanks to the delicious, hygienically prepared meals produced by our cooks at our Eco-Comfort Camps in Nepal | <i>Sue Badyari</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="3046441" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/IMG_3272-3046441-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Indian-Sub-Continent/Nepal/IMG_3272-3046441-###width###px.jpg" /></div> <hr />Learn more about all our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Exclusive-Eco-Comfort-Camps" target="_blank">Eco-Comfort Camps</a> or view our range of <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Nepal" target="_blank">Nepal trekking holidays</a>. <hr /> <hr /></div> </div> 5605Will it help to offset the carbon footprint of my holiday?https://assets.worldexpeditions.com/Blog/PostId/3281/offset-carbon-footprint-from-your-holidayActivities,Community,Charity Challenges,News,Thoughtful TravelMon, 13 Jan 2020 16:20:00 GMT<p><em><strong>Unsure about the benefits of offsetting the carbon emissions from your holidays? Read on for the counter-arguments to the sceptics.</strong></em></p> <p>In November 2019, we launched our <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/thoughtful-travel/carbon-offset-positive-impact-projects" target="_blank">100% carbon offset initiative</a>. We know that many people are unsure about the role of carbon offsetting in the bigger picture of global decarbonisation. Often this leads to scepticism. With assistance from the experts at <a href="http://www.southpole.com/" target="_blank">South Pole</a>, read on to find out how we address common arguments often made to discredit carbon offsetting.</p> <p> </p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9" style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="embed-responsive-item" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/IaBBN7uR7qg?rel=0&controls=1"></iframe></div>   <h2>#1: We should be reducing carbon emissions, not offsetting them!</h2> <p>Reducing emissions must be the first step in any responsible carbon offsetting programme. However, because we don’t live in a zero-emissions world (...yet!) and some carbon is produced by almost everything we do, offsets can help bridge the gap between today and a low-carbon tomorrow.</p> <p>Low-carbon alternatives to flying, electricity generation and other activities associated with travel and tourism are being developed. But for now, the two approaches – reduce and offset – must work together, not against each other.</p> <div class="dynamicImageWrapper" switchsource="image1"><carouselsource aspectratio="4x3" data-plugin-options="{'items': 3, 'margin': 10, 'nav': true, 'dots': false}"><img alt="Our Positive Impact Projects, such as the Hydropower China Project, supports local communities through employment. | <i>South Pole</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="594043" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Huoshui-Grouped-Hydropower-China-Project---Positive-Impact-Project-594043-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Huoshui-Grouped-Hydropower-China-Project---Positive-Impact-Project-594043-###width###px.jpg"> <img alt="Our Positive Impact Projects support conservation projects in Victoria's Annya State forest land in Australia. | <i>South Pole</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="594047" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Myamyn-Conservation-Australia---Positive-Impact-Project-594047-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Myamyn-Conservation-Australia---Positive-Impact-Project-594047-###width###px.jpg"> <img alt="Our Positive Impact Projects, such as the Bac Lieu Vietnam Wind Project, supports local economies and their sustainable development. | <i>South Pole</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="594049" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Bac-Lieu-Vietnam-Wind-Project---Positive-Impact-Project-594049-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Bac-Lieu-Vietnam-Wind-Project---Positive-Impact-Project-594049-###width###px.jpg"> <img alt="Our Positive Impact Projects, such as the Kariba REDD+ forest protection in Zimbabwe, supports local communities and their sustainable development. | <i>South Pole</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="594045" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Kariba-REDD_-forest-protection-in-Zimbabwe---Positive-Impact-Project-594045-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Kariba-REDD_-forest-protection-in-Zimbabwe---Positive-Impact-Project-594045-###width###px.jpg"> <img alt="Our Positive Impact Projects, such as the Kariba REDD+ forest protection in Zimbabwe, supports local communities and their sustainable development. | <i>South Pole</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="594048" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Kariba-REDD_-forest-protection-in-Zimbabwe-594048-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Kariba-REDD_-forest-protection-in-Zimbabwe-594048-###width###px.jpg"> <img alt="Our Positive Impact Projects, such as the Hydropower Project in China, supports local economies and their sustainable development. | <i>South Pole</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="594044" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Huoshui-Grouped-Hydropower-China-Project---Positive-Impact-Project-594044-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Huoshui-Grouped-Hydropower-China-Project---Positive-Impact-Project-594044-###width###px.jpg"> <img alt="Our Positive Impact Projects, such as the Bac Lieu Vietnam Wind Project, supports local economies and their sustainable development. | <i>South Pole</i>" class="responsiveImage" cropdataid="594050" dynamiccroppedimage="1" largestloadedsize="1100" src="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Bac-Lieu-Vietnam-Wind-Project---Positive-Impact-Projects-594050-1100px.jpg" variablesrc="/croppedImages/Marketing-Images/World-Ex/Bac-Lieu-Vietnam-Wind-Project---Positive-Impact-Projects-594050-###width###px.jpg"> </carouselsource></div>   <h2>#2: By paying somebody else to reduce emissions, carbon offsets enable ‘guilt-free’ pollution</h2> <p>The argument here is that carbon offsets provide a ‘licence to pollute’ – allowing individuals and organisations that purchase them and carry on with business as usual without changing their emissions-intensive behaviours.</p> <p>However, this is not true: accepting a price on carbon creates an incentive to reduce emissions to keep costs down. On top of this, there are many other benefits aside from emission reductions that carbon compensation projects create. We’ll come to those later.</p> <h2>#3: Carbon offsets remove the incentive to reduce emissions or decarbonise carbon-intensive activities, like flying</h2> <p>To offset unavoidable emissions, organisations can buy carbon credits. As more and more people, businesses and industries adopt emission reduction strategies, the price of carbon is driven up further. Pricing carbon helps incentivise emission reductions and drives innovations in low-carbon technology for emissions-intensive activities – like flying.</p> <p>Speaking of flying, a new source of demand for carbon offsets is imminent as the aviation industry will be required to cap emissions at 2020 levels – as set out by the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA, <a href="https://www.southpole.com/what-is-corsia-and-how-does-it-affect-your-airline" target="_blank">learn more about that here</a>). This will drive up the price of carbon even further, thereby encouraging the industry to develop low-carbon alternatives to flying.</p> <h2>#4: Carbon offsetting schemes do not work and emission reductions may have happened regardless</h2> <p>This argument is most commonly made about the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), which was established by the Kyoto Protocol to allow countries to meet emission reduction targets by purchasing carbon credits – called ‘certified emission reductions’ (CERs) – from projects in emerging economies.</p> <p>The CDM has been scrutinised because its actual effect on global emission levels is hard to prove. Some argue that the emission reductions claimed under the scheme would have occurred even without it. This is where the concept of ‘additionality’ comes in.</p> <p>Additionality is a mandatory component for carbon offsetting projects. It ensures that emission reductions claimed by projects are actually ‘additional’ to what would occur in a ‘business as usual’ scenario. Moreover, the CDM and standards that have followed – like Verra’s <a href="https://verra.org/project/vcs-program/" target="_blank">Verified Carbon Standard</a> (VCS) and the <a href="https://www.goldstandard.org/" target="_blank">Gold Standard</a> – have been subject to ongoing review for over a decade to ensure additionality is achieved. As a result, methodologies and verification procedures are continually improved.</p> <p>What further is indisputable is the billions of dollars in investment that the CDM and carbon markets drive into climate action. The CDM has thousands of registered climate protection and renewable energy projects, which would never have been established without the finance created by the carbon markets. The CDM also provides a framework for continuing climate action; the Paris Agreement includes a similar mechanism that will allow countries to meet their nationally determined contributions using offsets: <a href="https://iccwbo.org/media-wall/news-speeches/article-6-important/" target="_blank">Article 6</a>.</p> <h2>#5: Emission reduction projects are bad for local communities</h2> <p>It is, unfortunately, true that there have been reported cases where emission reduction projects have had negative consequences for local communities. However, not all carbon credits are created equal and these cases are the exception, not the norm.</p> <p>The best way to ensure that carbon compensation does not affect communities negatively is by doing the research. Source for example carbon credits from reputable project developers with projects certified by robust, best practice standards.</p> <p>World Expeditions Travel Group purchases carbon credits from leading sustainability solutions provider and project developer, South Pole. All of South Pole’s climate protection projects are certified under robust certification standards like the Gold Standard and VCS. Besides, community engagement is a key step in the project development process. First of all, projects must be approved by local stakeholders in both the development and implementation phases. On top of that, community consultation is performed on an ongoing basis throughout monitoring and verification cycles. Not only do these projects reduce emissions, they also create real, positive co-benefits for the local communities in which they operate.</p> <h2>The bottom line </h2> <div> <p>So, while we agree that carbon compensation is not the solution to climate change, it is an important step in the right direction. It’s a step that we can take right now to drive finance into climate protection projects and help bridge the gap between today and a low-carbon future.</p> <p>When you travel with World Expeditions you can do so with the knowledge that we have calculated the emissions produced by your land arrangements. And this does not come at an additional cost to our travellers. </p> <blockquote> <p><span style="color:#949e17;">For every kilogram of carbon produced, we invest money on your behalf into projects that reduce or remove carbon elsewhere.</span></p> </blockquote> <p>We compensate for the carbon footprint associated with all trips offered by World Expeditions (including our other specialist brands, World Expeditions Schools, Australian Walking Holidays, Tasmanian Expeditions, Great Canadian Trails and Adventure South).</p> <h2>How are the carbon emissions from my holiday offset?</h2> <p>The first – and most important – step is to reduce the emissions produced by our trips to begin with. When developing your itinerary, ingrained into the process is an investigation of the least carbon-intensive mode of transport or accommodation available on the ground. Once we have identified that option, and with safety considerations met, we use it. However, no matter how carbon-conscious we all are, travel invariably has a carbon footprint – whether it be from road transport or electricity from accommodations. To help address this, we compensate for the remaining unavoidable emissions by financing emission reduction projects around the world.</p> <h2>Positive Impact Projects you will support</h2> <p>We currently support these <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/thoughtful-travel/carbon-offset-your-land-travel" target="_blank">four renewable energy and reforestation projects</a> by offsetting our carbon footprint:</p> <ul> <li> <p> <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Offset-Your-Land-Travel#VietnamProject">Vietnam</a></p> </li> <li> <p> <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Offset-Your-Land-Travel#AustraliaProject">Australia</a></p> </li> <li> <p> <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Offset-Your-Land-Travel#ZimbabweProject">Zimbabwe</a></p> </li> <li> <p> <a href="https://worldexpeditions.com/Thoughtful-Travel/Offset-Your-Land-Travel#ChinaProject">China</a></p> </li> </ul> <h2>Additional sources:</h2> <p>   •   You've just bought yourself an active holiday, and wonder if carbon offsetting the flight will help? <a href="https://www.vice.com/amp/en_uk/article/pa78d7/carbon-offsetting-what-is-it-and-does-it-even-work" target="_blank">Read the article here</a><br>    •   Vogue Australia (25 November 2019): "<a href="https://www.vogue.com.au/fashion/news/what-is-carbon-offsetting-and-does-it-actually-work/image-gallery/57a66b76ecf7c517953ecc111e4b1836" target="_blank">Carbon offsetting is the new black</a>"<br>    •   What are carbon credits? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaqwMEltIrc" target="_blank">Watch this video by South Pole</a></p> </div> 3281