Exploring Iceland

When planning a trip to a foreign country, typically Iceland is not the first place that comes to mind. One may think of Iceland as a cold, dreary, lonely and isolated place but this is just not true.

Iceland is an extremely beautiful country, rich with culture and scenery. The fact that it is geologically and volcanically active plays a big part in defining the landscape of this Nordic country. With volcanoes, geysers, natural hot springs, waterfalls, and geothermal pools; Iceland is anything but ice.

If you prefer outdoor activities, Iceland may be for you. There are rivers for white water rafting and kayaking, though according to the Iceland Tourist Board's website, kayaking is not native to the country, the many natural waterways are ideally suited for the sport. You will also find deep sea fishing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and skiing for other popular activities in Iceland.

During summer months, you can play golf at one of the many golf courses throughout the island. In the month of June, 24-hour golf is available, as the sun does not set at that time. Hiking is a popular summer pastime in Iceland, as is swimming, horseback riding, and bike riding (available for rent in most towns).

One of the most popular things to do is a trip to the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa in the youngest lava field in western Iceland. There are many things to do while there, from bathing in the lagoon, relaxing under a waterfall, treating yourself to an outdoor massage, or walking around and just enjoying the beauty of your surroundings.

Whale watching safaris are also available to visitors. Many species of whales are usually spotted on these tours, such as the orca whale, humpback, majestic fin and sei whales. Puffins, cormorants, gulls, kittiwakes and other sea birds tend to accompany the tours as well. The safaris are only available from May through September.

Reykjavik is rich in culture and cuisine. There are many art galleries and museums dedicated to most hobbies and interests. The Iceland Symphony orchestra performs year round as does the Opera and the Theater. There are many activities throughout the year in Reykjavik like the Winter Lights Festival, The Iceland Food & Fun Festival both held in late February, Beer Day on March 1, the Arts Festival in May and more.

If you have never considered a trip to Iceland before, perhaps now is the time.

By Joy Ross

Adventure Sport in Nepal

Nepal is quickly becoming one of the biggest adventure playgrounds in Asia. Many people travel here to discover more about the mysterious Himalaya and the beautiful culture it has to offer but more recently adrenaline junkies have been traveling to this enchanting country to get their next kick. And who can blame them; with so many sports on offer and the stunning scenery, where better to go than Nepal.

Listed below are a few of the action adventures you can expect to find in this surprising country...

Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking
Nepal has some of the best whitewater in the world, with rivers ready for first timers or experienced paddlers. Trips range from one or two days to two week expeditions, often paired with some trekking to get to the remote rivers offering a whole new experience. Depending on how daring your feeling, Nepal has rivers that will make anyone's heart beat a little bit faster!

Paragliding

Where better to go paragliding than Pokhara with a breath taking view of the Annapurna mountain range? After the takeoff (which believe me is the only scary part!) you'll be soaring in the sky with eagles weaving in and out of you.

Your only problem will be knowing where to look! With the mountains glistening in the sun on one side and the Fewa Tal lake on the other with the World Peace Pagoda looking on at you, you won't ever want to land! Most flights are half an hour tandem, but if you have more time why not learn to fly yourself? All the equipment is provided and guides are trained to an international standard. A great way to spend a morning in Pokhara.

Canyonning

Canyonning is quite a new sport to Nepal, and I must admit when I first got there I'd never heard of it before! Basically it is the sport of traveling down canyons using a variety of techniques such as walking, scrambling, climbing, abseiling and swimming. It is one sport that will get you completely off the beaten track but does require quite a good level of fitness. There are several sites in Nepal where canyonning is available.

Rock Climbing

With endless mountains in this country, it's not really that surprising that you'll find some great places to go climbing. And you don't have to go that far to find them, even within Kathmandu there are some great little spots (have a look at Narajun forest for example). There are courses for beginners or advanced climbers. It's a great way to fill in your spare days in Kathmandu and get away from all the traffic.

Mountain Biking

Although trekking is still the most popular past time for travelers, Nepal has some of the best terrain for mountain biking. There are some incredible tracks and trails to be explored and you won't be stuck in a crowd. Depending on your fitness you can opt for a one day down hill tour, or if you're up for it a week's expedition, (thighs of steel are recommended for this though!). Bikes can be hired locally very cheaply, just make sure you spend that extra 25p and get a helmet for the day as well!

In two weeks you can get a fairly good taste for adventure in Nepal. Raft, bungee, fly, bike, climb and abseil you way around this remarkable country. Just make sure you book your trips with a safe company, when involved in these type of activities you can't afford to skimp on your safety.

Have a look at http://www.grgadventurekayaking.com for more information.
info@grgadventurekayaking.com

By Christina Dawkins