The urge to experience something new and exhilarating is a beautiful part of the human psyche. It’s the reason we’ve explored and met other cultures, the reason we’ve invented wondrous things, and the reason we continue to study the world around us. Of course, the feeling can be a source of frustration if you don’t have anything to direct it at. The following aims to remedy that by providing you with a few ways you can satisfy your need for adventure while traveling.
It’s important to note that every person’s desire for excitement is different. Some people aren’t comfortable with heights; others don’t like risks involving wild animals. Some people are adventurous except when it comes to their dinner, while others will try anything you put in front of them but have issues being packed into small spaces. As you work through the below list, be honest with yourself about the things you’d actually enjoy. Seek those out and leave the rest for someone else to try.
Local Cuisine
One of the best ways to get your feet wet in the realm of adventure on a trip is to try the local cuisine. Every place has a diet that developed out of the culture and the resources available in the area. If you’re in Cambodia, try a red ant dish. In Mexico, you might want to try escamole, which has ant larvae within it. In France, try frog legs or snails. Trying food can be a wonderful way to discover new flavors. If you find something you love, you will probably be able to find some directions online for how to try the recipe at home. See if you can purchase local spices to take home as a souvenir.
Be sure to look up the implications of any allergies you have. For instance, people who are allergic to shellfish are also allergic to animals with certain exoskeletons like cockroaches. If something is uncommon in your area, there’s a chance you aren’t aware of how it relates to your allergy.
Explore What’s Unique
Depending on where you’re traveling, there are going to be things you can’t find anywhere else. Give them your attention. This might mean taking a horseback tour through the Mongolian countryside or following an ultimate guide through Mexican Cenotes. If the unique activities in an area involve higher altitudes, be sure to research what steps you should take to help your body adjust. You might find yourself getting tired more easily, and you also will notice that one drink at a higher altitude can sometimes feel like three. Altitude sickness is a real thing that needs to be prepared for. Give yourself a few days at a height before attempting anything strenuous.
Trekking
If the great outdoors is your happy place, why not participate in a trek while abroad. Many countries have services that guide travelers through the local wilderness. Getting to immerse yourself in the natural landscape of a place can do wonders for your well-being. Even just half an hour in the wild can boost your immune system and mental health for an entire week. It’s a good idea to speak to a guide about what sort of wildlife you’re likely to encounter and any tips for avoiding trouble. You also want to be certain that you don’t leave any trash behind as you go. Take a plastic bag with you that you can gather your garbage into; dispose of everything when you’re back in town.
Kayaking, Canoeing And Rafting
In places where there are waterways to explore, spending some time out on the water on a kayak, canoe or raft can be a wondrous dose of adventure. Depending on your skill with any of these vehicles, you can even get into wilder passages and white water rafting. It’s vital that you only go off on your own if you know how to navigate yourself and if you’ve been informed that the area is safe. You don’t want to be stumbling upon alligators or something else unseemly.
The above list should give you an idea of how you can meet your adventure needs while traveling. Remember to always be respectful of the local customs (even if those customs involve wearing clothing that you find stifling given the climate) and follow the advice of your guides. Never ignore insect bites when traveling and, whenever possible, wear close-toed shoes to protect your feet as nothing is going to slow down your adventure-based travel faster than sore or damaged feet.
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