The 10 Greatest Offbeat Hikes

The 10 Greatest Offbeat Hikes Wouldn’t it be great to leave all your stress behind and journey to where no one knows you? Remove yourself from the daily grind and get close to the outdoors on some of the world’s most obscure trails. Visit Africa’s third highest peak, the Australian deserts, or trek the world’s most southern peak in Patagonia, all are breathtaking. And don’t be intimidated by the remoteness of these areas - there’s a path for every type of trekker.

Gokyo Lakes & Renjo La in Nepal

Total Duration: Approximately 17 days - 13 days trekking

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging (6)

Ideal for: Active travelers who want to try out a trail different to the ever-popular Everest Base Camp trek

Best time to go is February to mid-May or end of September to December

Wouldn’t it be pleasant to be on a trail that is less visited in the Everest region? 10 Greatest Offbeat Hikes 22619671369719279331.jpg

This trail goes through Sherpa villages to the stunning greenish blue Gokya Lakes and runs through the Renjo La (5400m) on a rarely ventured trail. The route to the Everest region is deemed to be one the grandest walking trails and gives one a view of the Himalaya’s 8000-meter crests. As you ascend to Gokyo Ri, you will witness one of the top views of Everest and neighboring mountains, such as Cho Oyu in Tibet.

Larapinta Trail End to End in Australia

Duration: Approx. 14 days

Level is Moderate to challenging (6)

Best for the wilderness lovers and seasoned walkers who want a challenge

Ideal to go is Mid-April to August

One of Australia’s most renowned treks, the entire walk of the Larapinta follows the West MacDonnell range and is over 223 kilometers. Hike through this desert-like area with tucked away ridges and canyons, slumber under the night sky in the Outback; climb Mount Sonder, one of the tallest mountains in the Northern Territory and wake up to a most memorable sunrise.

Dientes Circuit on Navarino Island in Chile

Duration: Approximately 6 days (4 days trekking)

Grading: Challenging - 7

Ideal for: Experienced trekkers who are looking to get off the beaten track in Patagonia

When to go: Months of December to March

Experience traveling to the southernmost part of the planet to Dientes de Navarino Massif and feel like you are removed form everything and everyone. You will most likely not see any other backpackers along this 42-kilometer circuit. This trek has been reported as one of Patagonia’s best treks and one of the most distant places left on the planet.

K2 Base camp, Concordia & Gondogora La in Pakistan

Duration: About 24 days (16 days trekking)

Grading is considered entry level mountaineering/ exploratory trekking (8)

Best for: Anyone looking to get into mountaineering, or who is seeking a challenging trek

Best time to go: June to August

Labeled as a top trek, it crosses from the well-known Baltoro Glacier, to the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods” and to the bottom of the planet’s second highest summit. Pakistan’s renowned walk has inspired the likes of trekkers and mountaineers for many years, with a 360-degree view of 7,000 meter and 8,000-meter crests, including the remarkable K2.

The Southern Alps in New Zealand

Duration is about 6 days

Grading is Moderate (5)

Best for: Those looking to head for heights

Ideal time to go is November to April

Often referred to as one of the globe’s best trekking, or “tramping” as it is known among the locales, New Zealand’s Southern Alps are the ideal backdrop for a hiking adventure. Trekking in the out of the way alpine tarns with clear vistas from above, this journey has even been used as a precursor for a trek in the Himalayas.

Mountains of the Moon in Uganda

Duration: Approx. 13 days - 10 days trekking

Grading: Entry level mountaineering/ exploratory trekking (8)

Best for anyone who has checked Mt Kilimanjaro off their list and are looking for their next summit challenge

Ideal time to go: December to February and June to September

Barely visited and quite remote, the Rwenzori Mountains (or Mountains of the Moon) are Africa’s hidden gem. If you are looking for a challenging adventure - hike Margherita Peak (5,109m), Africa’s third tallest summit.

West Coast Trail in Canada

Duration: Approximately 8 days (7-day full-pack trek)

Grading: Moderate to challenging (6)

This is for those active walkers who enjoy coastal walks and seek to combine it with an amazing forest trek and wildlife spotting

Best time to go is August

Take a ferryboat and cross the Strait of Georgia filled with Orcas, head to Vancouver Island’s northern trailhead where your trip gets started, and even spot a sea lion, eagle, or bear on the shore. This hike is in the top 10 of all hikes; and if you assess your time properly, you can take advantage of coastline strolls on the shelf.

Snowman Trek in Bhutan

Duration: About 27 days (23 days trekking)

Grading: Exploratory trekking (8)

Ideal for: Anyone looking for an extremely challenging trek that ventures far off the beaten track

Best time to go: September to November

Visit the greatest traverse of Bhutan comprising 11 elevated passes over 4,500 meters through the remote Lunana district. This awesome passage also crosses to the lovely Paro Valley where you will notice a stretch of land with small Buddhist monasteries and distant villages that are out of the way from the rest of the country for many months of the year.

Pamir Fann Mountains in Tajikstan

Duration: Approximately 14 days (5 days trekking)

Grading: Moderate (5)

Best for those wanting to take their bush walking adventures a new level while incorporating historical and architectural sightseeing

Best time to go is June to September

Popular for its unique mountain landscapes and its strikingly beautiful alpine lakes this untouched area of Pamir enters deep valleys with clear lakes and flowering meadows. You may even catch a peek of the summer camps of the Tijiki shepherds.

Tavan Bogd, Mongolia

Duration: Approximately 11 days (4 days trekking)

Grading: Moderate (5)

Ideal for: Anyone seeking to explore untracked wilderness and authentic nomadic culture

Best time to go: June to August

In this most remote area of Mongolia, you will be presented pure natural landscapes, wildlife and a compelling history. You will also observe local herders, bactrian camels, Kazakh eagle hunters and throat-singing Tuvan natives, and study the roaming people which are native to this land.

Tours for Any Taste

Tours for Any Taste Deciding on what type of tour you want to take and then deciding on the destination can be quite intimidating. Tours Taste 96028807.jpg

Will you use a bike or your feet to get about? Maybe you’re a wine connoisseur or a food lover. Do you enjoy the company of others when you travel, or would you prefer to go it alone? Do you want your holiday to be more adventuresome? Or, are you more of a curious globetrotter?

Before you pack your bags...

Way before you get on that airplane, you’ll have lots to think about for your perfect vacation. Determine the type of tour best suited to your interests. You’ll need to choose whether you want to get around by yourself or travel with a group. Hikers, ghost seekers, and adventurers, to name some, will all see that there is an ideal tour for them.

Weekend Getaways Not Far from Home

Weekend Getaways Not Far from Home Sometimes life calls for a weekend getaway to de-stress, see something interesting, and have a little fun. But picking which destination to travel to can be daunting when you are only going to have a few days available. There are, fortunately, a lot of places that are great for an idyllic weekend away.

New York City

You can reach New York City by train, plane or car, so weekend getaways are a cinch. It has so many worthwhile inside and outside things to do that weather should not factor into your decision: Central Park and the High Line for lovers of the outdoors, and interesting museums or entertaining Broadway shows if and when you prefer to remain indoors. Both the striking iconic landmark known as the Statue of Liberty and historic Ellis Island can be accessed by ferry.

San Francisco

The City by the Bay offers temperatures in the 60s most of the year, making it perfect for walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, riding the famed cable cars and exploring the city's eclectic neighborhoods. AT&T Park is a fabulous place to enjoy the scenery while taking in a baseball game, as the stadium overlooks the lovely San Francisco Bay.

Washington, D.C.

Not only is America's capital chock full of no-cost sights, many of them are concentrated on the National Mall, making it easy to see the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument and other highlights in just a matter of days. The weekend brunch scene is really fantastic here, but be sure to secure reservations ahead of time.

New Orleans

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The wonderful city of New Orleans offers an impressive array of activities to pick from. The lovely City Park has a lot of fun things to do if you want to be outside in the open air, or if you prefer museums, check out the famous and fascinating National WWII Museum. Of course, if you have a weekend in New Orleans, you should walk around the famous French Quarter and sample the traditional beignets.

Nashville, NC

If you want a weekend of clean mountain air and sunshine followed by delicious artisanal hand-crafted beer from a regional brewery, Nashville, NC is the perfect weekend getaway. The legendary Appalachian Trail passes through the area if you want to hike a portion, and nearby Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway also offer fun day hikes. A day in the mountain air will make you thirsty, so be sure to check out some of the cool local breweries, which together boast over 100 locally-crafted beers for you to try.

Chicago

Because it is centrally located and not hard to get to from nearly anywhere in the U.S., Chicago is a great weekend destination for anyone wanting to experience its lively bar and restaurant scene, architectural history, or other activities. When the temperatures are mild, check out the iconic sculpture nicknamed “The Bean” or take a boat down the Chicago River to view the beautiful architecture. If you go in the frigid winter months, you might choose to visit the amazing local museums like the Art Institute of Chicago or the Field Museum.

Seattle

In Seattle, be sure to stop in a local café for coffee, as the city is known for its laid-back coffee scene (it’s home to the original Starbucks); see the iconic Space Needle; then head over to lively Pike Place Market in the evening for dinner or drinks. You can even schedule in a hike in Discovery Park or on nearby Mount St. Helens. Pack an umbrella, but don’t let the city’s famous rainy weather discourage you; it is generally just a light drizzle or mist.

International Escapes: A Hop, Skip and Jump Away

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It’s not hard to presume an international getaway is too aggressive for a weekend. Guess again. Actually, lots of foreign destinations are close enough to be a viable three-day weekend trip. Below is a list of fantastic places great for a thrilling weekend adventure.

Montreal, Quebec

Picturesque Montreal, Canada boasts lovely French influence and old-world charm with all the advantages of a larger city (it’s second in size only to Toronto). The traditional cobblestone streets of Vieux Montreal take you back in time, and the unique boutiques, cafes, and restaurants are always fun to explore. When the weather is nice, head to the vast Mount Royal Park for a picnic, guided tour, or leisurely bike ride. It also has spots where you can ice skate, go snowshoeing, or do different outdoor activities in the winter months.

Bermuda

Bermuda is not only internationally-renowned for its breathtaking pink sand beaches, but this British overseas territory situated in the mid-Atlantic is just a two-hour flight from numerous US cities. In addition to the incredible beaches, Bermuda is a great place to stroll around exploring its picturesque cobblestone streets, imposing forts, traditional colonial buildings, and interesting maritime history. Brave adventurers can rent a jet ski and ride into the notorious Bermuda Triangle.

Baja California Sur, Mexico

Baja California Sur, Mexico is an easy weekend escape for devoted sun worshippers and beach-goers. At the southern tip of Baja California is Cabo San Lucas, popular for its exotic resorts, upscale dining, and cool bars and nightclubs. For a more active weekend, head to Lover’s Beach to see the impressive natural rock formations, explore the famous caves, or delight in the lovely crystal-clear ocean.

Costa Rica

While its tropical rain forest feels like another world, Costa Rica is in fact a fairly quick flight from many places in the U.S. One of its claims to fame is its 800 miles of coastline, so it is a great place for beach goers who want to enjoy some fun in the sun. The Arenal Volcano area is considered its adventure capital where you can rappel down a waterfall; hike in the jungle while watching out for colorful birds, monkeys and sloths; experience a thrilling zip-line ride; and soak in the volcano-fed hot springs.

Cartagena, Columbia

Cartagena is on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, and features gorgeous beaches with white powdery sand, enticing crystal clear blue water, and famous coral reefs for you to explore. History aficionados will enjoy the architecture reminiscent of Spanish colonial times with its military influence, historic walls still surrounding part of the city today, and fortresses made from coral stone more than 500 years ago.

Toronto

Toronto, the largest-sized city in Canada, is a cutting-edge, cosmopolitan center perfect for city lovers. More than 50% of its residents were not born there, making it a very diversified city in terms of people and ethnic heritage. After a vacation in Toronto you could feel like you’ve been on a world tour if you visited its Little Italy, Chinatown, Koreatown, and Greektown. Whether you are looking for extreme adventure, lounging on the beach with a cold drink, or something in between, there is an international weekend getaway ideal for you. Anything you want – love, adventure, culinary treats, history – can be yours.

Get Away For That Special Occasion

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Get Away For That Special Occasion Holiday breaks and special moments are meant for festivity, good memories and a fun time. Therefore, why not think about visiting Santa’s workshop in Lapland, going away on an intimate break in Dubrovnik for Valentine’s Day, getting married in St. Lucia and honeymooning in Bora Bora? Next are just a few top locations where you can go to observe those important moments and create fantastic memories.

A Christmas in Rovaniemi, Lapland

A visit to Santa’s workshop in Lapland is the greatest spot to take your family at Christmas time. This city, located on the Arctic Circle, is the most magical place for young children and adults to have fun and embrace the Christmas spirit. Each day, young ones will be able to see Santa Claus at Santa Claus Village, and stop by the Santa Park where Santa’s tiny aids and his reindeer are there to say hello. Every child’s dream come true!

Spend New Year's Eve at Sydney Harbour Bridge

There is absolutely nothing more breathtaking than experiencing the array of fireworks in Sydney which are considered one of the very best fireworks displays in the world. The entertainment starts at 6 pm with an entertainment show at Sydney Harbour, concluding at midnight with a fireworks show for the whole family at Sydney Harbour Bridge. This 12-minute performance is dazzling and is enjoyed by millions worldwide.

Spend Valentine's Day in Dubrovnik

The Adriatic city of Dubrovnik is one of southeastern Europe’s foremost intimate cities featuring a medieval feeling and distinctive Croatian charms. Tourists have said that it is the most ideal place to propose to that important person; with old, charming buildings oozing with medieval history. Poets, novelists and artists have been shaped by this vibrant town. To completely appreciate the wonders of this town, jump on a cable car and witness the terracotta rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and the island of Lokrum across the way.

Tie the Knot in St. Lucia

There is no better place to get married than St. Lucia and there are countless factors why. Rich with tropical rain forests and wildlife, this island showcases its most famous sight, the emerald double summits called the Pitons. This Caribbean island is the most desirable place for your beachfront wedding ceremony in paradise!

Bora Bora: The Perfect Honeymoon Destination

The beauty is overwhelming on the small island of Bora Bora in the South Pacific, which is only 6 miles long and no more than 2 miles wide. Mt. Otemanu, a hibernating volcano, springs up from the core of the island fanning out into plush jungle before spilling into a greenish blue lagoon. It was called “the most beautiful island in the world” by novelist James Michener, who wrote “Tales of the South Pacific”. In the 18th century, British explorer James Cook penned it “Pearl of the Pacific”. Offering elegant resorts, perfect weather and cheerful locals, there is no better tropical getaway than Bora Bora.

Bali: Your Anniversary Destination

If you are looking for the perfect place to enjoy your anniversary, Bali is the place to go; with its colossal mountains, beaches and coral reefs. The spectacular scenery, and the clear blue waters of the beaches, make Bali feel like eden. Luxury travelers head here as a result of of the highly developed arts, the deluxe holiday resorts and the dynamic nightlife. If you and your significant other want to experience things like personalized cruising in Crystal Bay, private tours to Mt. Batur – Bali’s sacred volcano, a couple’s massage, cooking classes with locals and helicopter rides, then Bali is for you.

Cruise the Mediterranean

Cruise the Mediterranean What we refer to as contemporary civilization – from science and democracy to art and culinary traditions – are generally credited to the culture-rich shores of Southern Europe. By visiting its coast, you too can bask in its rich history. Regardless of whether you lay in the sun on the beaches of Spain and Italy, study the historical sights of Greece and Jerusalem, or enjoy the beauty of Santorini and the Greek Islands, the memories you make there will last a lifetime. Ancient Rome is still observable in the city’s Pantheon and Colosseum, and the spectacular St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City is a must-see. Stop in Spain’s bustling city of Barcelona to check out the unique architecture of Antoni Gaudi. Wine lovers will want to enjoy time in the famous wine regions of Chianti in Italy, Port in Portugal, and Provence in France. On the Adriatic coast, check out the UNESCO World Heritage site of Dubrovnik, the historic city bordered by ancient stone walls.