It’s often said that life is a journey. Along the way we’re pushed in different directions by our sense of curiosity and are sometimes drawn to paths purely seeking something different. This is no truer than when we hit the road purely for excitement, meeting new people, encountering different cultures, and yes, hopefully experiencing something that’s out of the ordinary. Let’s just say these are the positive side effects of wanderlust.
Here are the Squire’s pick of four travel experiences the average traveler probably will not encounter. Are you game?
Space Travel
Now here’s a trip that’s out of this world, literally. Space tourism has been conceptualized by film makers, writers, and engineers since the invention of the space shuttle. Only 7 civilians have been in space so far, a number that’s soon to grow. Several corporations are working on developing a space shuttle capable of transporting a large number of civilians into space. Among them is Virgin Galactic, who is already reserving seats for flights into space at $250,000. For this price “astro-tourists” will be able to join the few who have flown above the Earth’s atmosphere. Galactic is not just offering a seat on a space ship, but an adventure that is the stuff of science fiction. The passengers will feel the disorienting lack of gravity, experience the deafening silence, and view the earth from above. Talk about a new perspective.
Climbing Mount Everest
Climbing Mount Everest is at the top of the list of unique experiences and not just due to the mountain’s height. Climbing the earth’s highest peak carries a hefty price tag, the permit alone costing $10,000. It also requires a great amount of preparation. Frostbite is a real danger so investing in top notch thermal gear is a given. Temperatures near the top fall below 0˚F. If that sounds discouraging just try to focus on the exhilaration of the climb. Those who have conquered the mountain and even those who opt out of ascending into the death zone (the top 3,000 feet) come back with a new outlook and purpose in life. Even if this doesn’t happen to you, the perpetual bragging rights will be life changing.
Cruising to Antarctica
When you think about going on a cruise do you think of Antarctica? It’s the only continent without any permanent human inhabitants and is the coldest, driest, highest landmass on earth. The unexpected variety of wildlife makes visiting it an experience unlike any other. And because of its stark features the best way to experience it is on a specialized cruise or tour. Hurtigruten promises a great journey, complete with many excursions to the continent. You can visit the polar circle, march with the penguins, and walk in the footsteps of whalers and explorers who sailed the Antarctic seas years ago. This most definitely is classified as a once in a lifetime trip and a truly original travel experience.
Gorilla Tracking
Nothing compares to encountering animals in their natural habitat and most people choose a safari for an immersive experience, watching herds of antelope and a pride of lions without getting too close. But a safari is not the only way to see animals in Africa. Uganda Wildlife Authority organizes daily gorilla watching tours. An endangered species, with only about 700 living in the wild, the gorillas benefit from being observed. All the proceeds from the trek go towards their protection. The day long trip takes a group of 6 on the trails of the gorillas, tracking their whereabouts. With the help of wildlife experts, the group is able to locate and watch gorillas at a safe distance as they go about their monkey business.
http://www.ugandawildlife.org/explore-our-parks/parks-by-activity/gorilla-tracking