Choose Your Own (Travel) Adventure!

There’s a lot of interest these days in “adventure travel” – but adventure travel is not one size fits all! Read on to learn about different types of adventure travel – and you’ll soon be able to choose your own (travel) adventure!

Adventure travel includes an array of experience types for travelers…

Physical activity
Connection with nature
Exploring unique local cultures

Some experiences may be focused more heavily on one of these. Or, a trip may encompass all of these!

Physically Active Trips

First, the stereotypical adventure travel experience: One that incorporates physical activity.

Of course, these aren’t one-size-fits-all, either.

An “outdoorsy” trip in nature that involves hiking, biking, sailing, etc.
One focusing on more traditional exercise – like running, swimming, biking, or a specific sport

For some people, the thought of exercising on vacations is ludicrous. But, if you’re accustomed to an active lifestyle in your everyday life, this type of trip can be a fun way to maintain your fitness while enjoying some time away!

Other kinds of adventure travel (like those outlined below) may or may not include physically active components, but some may require you to be in good health. At least some of the more “remote” ones. That being said, our partners are very accustomed to working with our clients to tailor an experience to their needs and ability levels.

Being “One” with Nature

Experiences that allow you to connect with nature are very popular these days. Some examples are:

Safaris (African, Indian, Arctic, etc.)
Expeditions (such as to the Galapagos, the Amazon, Alaska, etc.)
Camping (or glamping!)

Getting fully connected with nature lets you escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And, in some cases, your location may be so remote that there’s not even a connection to everyday life (read: no Internet or phone service!).

Connecting with Cultures

And, unique cultural experiences enable travelers to get a true sense of where they are – providing more of an understanding about where they are. Getting outside of one’s comfort zone can also help you to appreciate the way of life in other cultures via local villages, or by experiencing local traditions or ceremonies. You may also be able to find a way to give back to the community through these experiences. One great example is Micato Safaris’ AmericaShare foundation, which helps to provide education and stability to the impoverished communities where their safaris are based.

Having been on a few adventurous trips ourselves, we can attest to the life-changing power of these experiences. While low key, relaxing vacations are always great, we definitely have an appreciation for adventure. We love when we get to plan these types of trips for our clients. And, because Alicia is an advisor member of the Virtuoso Adventure Travel Community, Unleashed has access to the latest from a special list of adventure travel preferred partners.