Adventure Travel

Expedition To March On Magdala, Ethiopia

2011-09-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

It has taken Ethiopia a long time to shake off its international image as a nation blighted by famine, pestilence and civil war. In 1985 Bob Geldof and his gang of activists raised awareness of mass starvation in the horn of Africa with the famous Band Aid concert which went a long way to generating support and money for the people in need. An inevitable consequence of this though has been to brand Ethiopia as a symbol of despair. When I visited the African country last summer I expected the worst; bloated children, emaciated old women and fly-ridden cattle, basically a tear jerking collection of skin and bones. What I encountered was a totally different experience.

Driving through the highlands of Ethiopia I was totally unprepared for the sheer greenery and abundance of beauty. Long grass savannahs were interspersed with dramatic and ear splitting waterfalls. Tall and magnificent mountain ranges loomed on the horizon and gorges carved their way deep into the earth. Small, neat villages without a spot of litter line the well paved tarmac roads and we don't see another car for hours. This is clearly a poor place since no one can afford to buy petrol but there is a sense of pride and community here that is unique. Young boys eagerly stroll into the hills carrying stacks of firewood in smart blazers, lent down from the previous generation, perhaps donated in 1985. They smile as we drive past and a group of beautiful girls wave coyly nearby.

The highlands of Ethiopia are one of Africa's natural marvels, a land of rich culture and traditions spanning back millennia. It is a crossroads of civilisations, a meeting of orthodox Christianity, ancient Judaism and Arab Islam, not to mention a plethora of African animism and Rastafarianism. It isn't surprising then to realise that in spite of this mountain kingdoms reputation for diversity that it was actually once the cradle of humanity and the place of the original diaspora.

High in the jagged peaks of the Simien Mountains and the Amharic highlands, life is almost unchanged since our ancestors left some 50,000 years ago. Subsistence farming and hunting continues and traditional village life is a tempting draw for increasing numbers of visitors who want to visit Ethiopia before this way of life is gone forever.

The list of attractions in Ethiopia is endless, the stone castles of Gonder are a true marvel for anyone interested in history, as are the ancient rock hewn churches at Lalibela and the obelisks at Axum. The Omo valley is home to some of the most fearsome and traditional tribes in all of Africa, not to mention a vast array of wildlife and endemic species. Ethiopia is famed for its tasty coffee and local culinary delights. Culture and pride pervade every aspect of society. The people regard themselves as Ethiopians first and foremost and take delight in reminding visitors that theirs was once a great civilisation that resisted even the most determined of imperial invaders. It is the source of the Blue Nile and allegedly home to the ark of the covenant. It was a playground for explorers and hunters. There is so much more to this place than famine and disease.

Nowadays Ethiopia is beginning to attract a new breed of travellers- intrepid visitors who want to explore the vast hinterlands and mountain ranges and she can certainly oblige. International expedition companies and local tour guides alike are beginning to operate adventure treks and rafting tours in off the beaten track regions.

My last visit was brief, but what I saw meant that I promised that I would return again this year and get involved in one such expedition. Being a keen historian I was always interested in how Ethiopia resisted the imperial advances of Italy and Great Britain but it wasn't until I read Flashman on the March - a fictionalised account of a little known episode in British history that was, in effect, the first modern hostage rescue operation, that I learnt about the demise of the Abyssinian Emperor Tewdros II. It is a fascinating story - just Google 'March to Magdala' and you'll see why I just had to attempt to recreate an expedition following in its footsteps.

So, In April next year I will be leading a team of ten adventurous souls in an epic exploration of the Amharic highlands in one of the most remote and mountainous parts of rural Ethiopia which will be an incredible opportunity for anyone with an interest in history, exploration, wildlife, photography, or simply pure adventure to come along on this trip of a lifetime and visit a place that will change your very notion of developing Africa.

Scuba Diving in London

2011-09-04T09:43:00.000-07:00

I first started diving more than five years ago, but it's only recently that I can truly say I've dived in central London; as A few weeks ago I carried out a search and recovery dive for a handbag in Hyde Park.

We were called to the park because a boat had capsized in the serpentine tipping out a small family and their possessions, including an expensive Louis Vuitton BAG. Upon my arrival Alex, who runs Diving Leisure London, and I discussed the best search patterns; considering what we knew to be the likely conditions in the lake. We then kitted up and got in. Once underwater we found it was incredibly murky and at times it was like swimming through thick oil because of a large amount of leafy mulch. Even though Alex was right beside me, I couldn't see him. The lack of visibility, led us to keep a tight search pattern and at times we needed to feel our way along. After a short period of time we retrieved the bag and a pair of sandals that had also fallen in. We then surfaced and returned them to the husband who had waited by the lake. The rest of the family had gone to dry off and warm up.

A little further afield, when I'm not rescuing handbags, I teach in a lake on the outskirts of the M25. Once again, not the best dive site in the world but it is great for training new divers. For me, the larger deeper inland dive sites is where the fun really starts and once I'm in the sea off the UK coast, that's where I'm in my element.

There are many misconceptions about UK diving, for example lack of visibility, the cold, nothing down there etc. This really isn't true. Visibility off the coast isn't always spectacular, though how often do you actually look at something that's more than five metres away from you? And the colder waters don't have to be a problem as a good drysuit will supply you with ample insulation.

As far as what's down there is concerned, there is loads; a great abundance of marine life including seals, dogfish and basking sharks (which eat plankton). After all the marine life, there are thousands of wrecks at various depths including many that are perfect for technical dives. As a huge fan of wrecks I am spoiled for choice.

The Best Reasons to Visit India - The Kerala Backwaters

2011-08-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

Nestled along the Arabian coast, strewn with palms on both sides, the beguiling backwaters of Kerala truly evoke the image of a Paradise on Earth. True to the nickname of the state as God's own country, the backwaters are in fact, one-of-its-kind found in India, an unsurpassable natural wonder that can only be juxtaposed with the amazing American Bayou. The meandering labyrinth of brackish lagoons and canals, in actuality embrace a series of five lakes whose source is found in the midst of as many as 38 rivers and envelope almost half of Kerala's total area. Tucked amidst the numerous creeks and crevices of these backwaters lie the cities and towns of the state, forming some of the most frequented and alluring tourist destinations in the country.

Kerala Backwaters Ecosystem

The backwaters present an extraordinary, unique ecosystem that is a blend of both the sea and the river aquatic life, lapped as they are in between the rivers on one hand and the Arabian Sea on the other. A sip of the waters reveal a peculiar taste with the saltwater of the sea mingling with the fresh sweet water of the rivers. Some parts are preserved only for irrigation by raising up barrages to restrict the sea water from blending with that of the rivers. The backwaters are replete with flora and fauna being home to animals such as frogs, crabs, turtles, otters and mudskippers, while the shores are adorned with pandanus shrubs, bushes and palm trees lending them a luscious look.

Backwaters in the midst of Different Towns

On your trip to the backwaters of India, you are sure to be mesmerized by the picturesque spectacles that each of the towns and cities embracing the lagoons unfolds in its sway. Be it the Gateway to the Backwaters in Kollam, or those lying on the Vembanad lake in Kochi, the Veli Lagoon of Thiruvananthapuram or the unfathomed arenas of water in Kozhikode, the backwaters simply present a bewitching picture.

A visit to the Alappuzha backwaters, also nicknamed "the Venice of the East" unveils Mother Nature's beauty and bounty to the core. The luscious lakes winds along the long gamut of green shores for miles on end, while the soothing serenity engulfing every aspect of the atmosphere. Equally enthralling are the backwaters of Kumarakom that encompass an exotic amalgam of islands lying on the Vembanad lake. Staggeringly stunning are the camaraderie of lush mangrove forests and coconut groves, fringed by the paddy fields exuding hues of emerald in all its charm and beauty, a scene that you witness from the lap of the backwaters.

Touring the Backwaters- Houseboats

What can be a more enigmatic experience than exploring the captivating communion of the scarlet sky, the beautiful backwaters, and the embellished forests from the cradle of a houseboat? The watercrafts that used to run on the backwaters were constructed by artisans of great dexterity for use in transporting wares along the lagoons and lakes.

Today, touring the 900 kilometers of backwaters stretching along myriad towns has become one of the most popular tourist ventures in India. Apart from beholding the spectacular views of the coconut lined banks, splashed by the blue waters and kissed by the sky, the houseboats endow the tourists perfect accommodations on their holiday spree. Houseboats come in various sizes from cozy one bedroom ones just apt for honeymoon couples to grand four bedroom boats to accommodate families.

4 Ways to Form Friendships While Traveling (And Sustain Them After)

2011-08-16T09:41:00.000-07:00

Traveling does something to people. Having already committed to experiencing a new place, those on the road tend to be more willing to also experience new people, their culture, and their life stories. A time-passing conversation can sometimes transform a stranger into a traveling companion, and if you're lucky, a sustained friendship. Here's how:

1. Take a Class

Classmates share an instant bond: foreigners with a common interest. Classes meeting several days in a row provide ample opportunities to overcome initial shyness and engage in conversation.

While taking a scuba class, David and I met a couple who we later had lunch with, and dinner on another day. A year later we visited them at their home in Switzerland. A year after that, we were invited to their wedding in Sweden.

Taking an ecology class in Costa Rica led me to take another class with the same instructor in Peru. A few months later, I tagged along as a field assistant for the instructor in Trinidad. Every step of the way I met new people with fascinating life stories, many of which continue to stay in touch.

2. Get Bored; And Talk About It:

Waiting in line, waiting for the bus, waiting for the plane to take off, why complain alone? Grumble about something mundane as a lead in to learning more.

David and I met another couple while waiting for a bus in Belize City. The bus was late; we were standing in the same spot and decided to whine together. This simple conversation turned us into travel companions for the rest of our time in Guatemala. We also visited this couple in Switzerland.

3. Sit Down:

Find an open seat at the airport, a meal table, or on the bus. Especially in Central America, large tables are often shared between multiple parties at a restaurant.

Striking up conversation at an airport led David and I to meet an owner of a restaurant at our destination. A week later, we dined at said restaurant for free.

4. Know a Guy:

Have a friend who has a friend in the country you are visiting? Make arrangements to meet them when you arrive, even if only for a drink. You already have a friend in common, and they likely can provide great recommendations

A college friend of my husband's had been living in Germany for several years when we visited the country. Not only was he an incredibly fun addition to the trip, but he led us to great places we would have overlooked, spoke the language fluently, and encouraged us to try many new dishes we may not have attempted alone.

7 Important Rock Climbing Terms

2011-08-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

Rock climbing is a sport that's enjoyed by many people, and there are a number of things for beginners and experts to know about this activity. Rock climbing terms are used to refer to particular equipment and techniques and knowledge is essential for communication. You will find here the most important climbing terms for equipment and techniques.

An abseil or rappel is the process by which climber descends down a variety of ropes.

Belaying is a method of protecting climbers by passing ropes around or through an anchor point. This can be controlled by a person or the stationary object that serves as an anchor point. There are several requests that a climber can make to the person in charge of the belay point, and they're also essential rock climbing terms. Belay on is used to warn that a climber is using the rope. Belay off can also be used to confirm the climb is over, and the safety device is no longer needed.

Bouldering occurs when climbers practice their skills on large rocks or boulders. This type of climbing usually only requires pads for protection, and in this case belaying is not applicable.

A chimney is two rock faces that are close together, and appeals to climbers who are interested in making a chimney climb. The two surfaces provide an ideal way for a climber to ascend using the opposing faces for support and holds.

Crampons are devices that are used to climb on ice, and they serve as spikes that are used to provide toe holds during a climb.

Free climbing is when a climber attempts their climb with no safety equipment. This can often be dangerous, but many climbers prefer to ascend rocks with no ropes in their way.

A sharp end of a rope is the edge that's being used by the lead climber. This term can also be used to signify the lead climber of a group.

There are also several rope techniques, and they're named after the number of ropes that are used during the climb. A single rope technique relies on a safety rope that is attached to a single anchor point. A double rope technique involved two ropes that are affixed to a common belay point.

A few rock climbing terms are essential for communication in this dangerous sport, and some of the most common terms have been listed and described in detail for climbers to use during their next outing.

Family Adventures on a South Africa Safari

2011-08-04T09:39:00.000-07:00

Spending Time with Family on a South Africa Safari

Taking the family on a South Africa safari is one of the best options if you're looking for a malaria-free safari. The country is blessed with a great variety of malaria free reserves and this doesn't mean compromising on big game viewing either. This part of Africa has an excellent array of wildlife and if you visit one of the private reserves adjacent to the Kruger or in the Waterberg or the Eastern Cape, you are guaranteed sightings of the Big 5; lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. A South Africa safari offers families a tremendous experience with the very best in big game viewing, beautiful scenery, luxury accommodation and excellent food. South Africa is unique in that it offers families not only a great safari experience but a variety of destinations including Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route. Accommodation in Southern Africa is world class so your family can expect to be spoiled with ultimate comfort and fine dining.

Whale Watching with the Family

Every year between June and November thousands of whales migrate to the coastal waters of South Africa to calve and nurse their young. Taking the family to see these amazing creatures is the perfect way to conclude a South Africa safari. The beautiful and unspoilt Garden Route coastline stretches for over a thousand miles from Cape Town to the picturesque town of Port Elizabeth and it can be arranged for you and your family to take a self-drive trip or a boat to see large numbers of whale. Getting up close to a whale is an unforgettable and exhilarating experience for all the family, especially the children. The whales are actually very friendly and will often come within 5 metres if you're travelling by boat. The whale watching region is also populated with large numbers of dolphin, cape fur seals, penguins and great white sharks.

Visiting the Kruger National Park on a South Africa Safari

The iconic Kruger National Park in Southern Africa has a vast landscape with spectacular African wildlife that fills it. A safari here is ideal for families who want to be sure they see the Big 5 game while being surrounded by luxury and comfort. The reserves surrounding the Kruger have very few tourists so families can enjoy private game drives all to themselves. The Kruger is one of Africa's largest reserves covering an area of 19,000 square kilometres. As well as the Big 5, your family will be in the presence of elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion, leopard and cheetah. The park also has an amazing Birdlife with more than 700 species including eagles, vultures, ostriches and cranes. Your family will truly appreciate the excitement and thrill of a South Africa safari in Kruger National Park.

The Victoria Falls - Also Well-Known As The Smoke That Thunders

2011-07-07T09:30:00.000-07:00

General Facts for Victoria Falls:

Also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (the smoke that thunders). It is set in Southern Africa on the Zambezi River within the countries of Zimbabwe and Zambia. They are the biggest falls in the world. One of the seven natural wonders of the world the falls were named after Queen Victoria by David Livingstone, a missionary and trailblazer who was believed to have been the first European reported to have viewed the falls in 1856 and then made it known to England. He first saw the falls from an island known as Livingstone Island in Zambia. And though it is not the highest nor the widest waterfall in the world it is recognized as the largest.

Victoria Falls Water Flow:

The flow of water varies in great measure from season to season. Just after the rainy season in March or April the mass going over the falls in one minute is around half a million cubic metres, but in the dry season occurring in December it can be less than a twentieth of this. The advantageous time to view the falls is perhaps some time between these two extremes as when the falls are in full flood one cannot get close to them in safety. They are notwithstanding spectacular when not in full flood since they are not obscured by the fine mist.

David Livingstone believed that the falls had been created by some great crack in the earths crust in the far-off past. Geographical attestation now shows that the present chasm is the eighth in a continuation which has worked it's way upstream over many many years.

Composition of the Victoria Falls:

The falls have a breadth of 1708 metres and a height of 108 metres. This forms the greatest layer of falling water in the world. For quite a way upstream from the falls, the Zambezi river flows over a sheet of basalt in a shallow basin bound by sandstone hills. The rivers flow is specked with many little islands that extend in number as the river gets toward to the falls. There are no mountains, deep valleys or escarpments that would be predicted to create a waterfall. There is only a bulky flat plateau.

There is a considerable chasm, carved by the water into the plateau wherewith the water from the river takes an exclusive vertical drop over a 1708 metre wide area and plummets into a gorge. The depth of the gorge, called the First Gorge, is 80 metres deep on the western end and 108 metres deep in the centre. An outlet to the First Gorge, the only one is a 110 metre wide breach about two thirds of the way across the width of the falls from the western end, through this outlet, the complete volume of the river pours into the Victoria Falls gorges.

The Islands of The Victoria Falls:

At the crest of the falls there are two Islands. Boaruka Island (or Cataract Island) near the western bank and Livingstone Island near the middle. Livingstone Island is the place from which David Livingstone had his first glimpse of the falls from Zambia. These islands are big enough to divide the curtains of water, even at full flood. When it is less than plentiful flood other islets divide the curtain of water into particular streams. The main streams are called Devil's Cataract (recognized as Leaping Water to some), Main Falls, Rainbow Falls and Eastern Cataract.

Rainy Season in The Victoria Falls:

The rainy season is from late November to early April and the dry season is for the balance of the year. The Zambezi river's annual flood season is from February to May with the climax in April. The fine mist from the waterfall rises anywhere from 400 metres to 800 metres high and can be seen from as far as 50km away. During the day a daylight rainbow can be seen and during a full moon a moonbow can be seen in the spray. In the flood season the spray shoots upward like inverted rain especially at Zambia's Knife- Edge Bridge. During the dry season the bottom of the first gorge can be seen.

Victoria Falls - Largest Waterfalls:

Victoria Falls is roughly twice the height of the Niagra Falls in North America and well over double the width of the Horseshoe Falls. The only contest in height and width by South America's Iguazu Falls.

The all over size of the Zambezi river pours through the First Gorge. After this it enters a zigzag course of a suite of gorges. Water entering the Second Gorge makes a clear-cut right turn carving a deep basin titled Boiling Point. It is about 150 metres across. It is named Boiling Point because even though it's surface is smooth and calm at low water, it is full of angered turbulence at high water.

The Gorges of The Victoria Falls:

The First Gorge is the one that the Zambezi river falls into at Victoria Falls. The Second Gorge which is spanned by Victoria Falls Bridge is 2.15 km long. The Third Gorge is 1.95 km long and contains the Victoria Falls Power Station. The Fourth Gorge is 1.15 km south and 2.25 km long. The Fifth Gorge is 2.25km south and 3.2km long. The Songwe Gorge (called after the Songwe river) is 5.3km south and 3.3km long. The Batoka Gorge is about 120km long taking the river through the basalt plateau to the valley where Lake Kariba now lies.