Tag Archives: Inspired Adventures

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Fundraiser of the Month – Gabrielle Lee

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Gabrielle Lee

Cause: Leukaemia Foundation
Adventure: Machu Picchu Challenge 2016: Leukaemia Foundation

As our Fundraiser of the Month, Gabrielle has scored herself a $50 donation to her fundraising page. To be our next month’s winner, make sure you’re uploading your journey to social and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired.

What inspired you to take on your Inspired Adventure for the Leukaemia Foundation?

I love a challenge and I have never been overseas. I stumbled across the Inspired Adventures website and when I saw the Machu Picchu trek for the Leukaemia Foundation, I didn’t need to put any more thought into it. I booked it instantly. When my brother Josh was 5 years old, he was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. We are very close, born just 12 months apart. Josh spent a year at Westmead Children’s Hospital where he underwent a bone marrow transplant and chemotherapy. My mum didn’t have much money and relied heavily on support services such as transport, financial assistance, accommodation, education and emotional support. Being a cause so close to my heart, I love any opportunity to fundraise for the Leukaemia Foundation. Josh is now 26 years old and fortunately, very healthy. He’s especially excited for the adventure I’m about to take!

How are you feeling about the challenge ahead?

I’m excited! I am eager to meet my team who seem to be such like-minded and inspiring people. I’m a little bit nervous about the difficulty of the trek but I’m sure it will be a great experience and I can’t wait to take on one of the most beautiful treks in the world!

What have been some of your more successful fundraising ideas so far?

Having a fundraiser BBQ at Bunnings would be the most successful event I have held so far. It was great to get out in the community and talk to people about the foundation and why I’m raising money. I had such a supportive team of family, close friends, and even some acquaintances who turned out to be more generous than I could have ever imagined!

"Seeing how helpful and generous people can be would have to be the ultimate highlight."

What have been some of the highlights of your fundraising experience so far?

Just seeing how helpful and generous people can be would have to be the ultimate highlight. Getting a donation from someone who you least expect really warms the heart. Meeting people while fundraising and hearing stories about their experiences with leukaemia, whether it is their own, a friend or family member, it makes me feel so determined and motivated to do all that I can for the foundation.

What have been your biggest challenges in taking on an Inspired Adventure? How did you overcome this?

I joined the Machu Picchu group in December and so I haven’t had long to get organised. My biggest challenge has been the financial struggle that comes with any overseas trip. I just stay focused on what’s ahead and how much this cause means to me. I have been working hard to get myself to Peru and it’s not hard to remind myself why I’m doing this.

Have you noticed any changes or transformation in your life since taking on your first adventure?

My priorities have changed. I am so driven and determined to be a better person and challenge myself more.

What are you most looking forward to about your upcoming adventure to Peru?

I’m most looking forward to meeting the rest of the Inca trekkers, experiencing the Peruvian culture and of course, getting to Machu Picchu!

"My priorities have changed. I am so driven and determined to be a better person and challenge myself more."

What advice would you offer to other people looking to complete a challenge like this?

It will be the best thing you’ve ever done. Work hard and don’t give up. Don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way, and have fun!

Fundraiser of the Month

Become our Fundraiser of the Month to win a $50 donation to your fundraising page!

Take a picture whilst fundraising for your adventure and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired and your adventure hashtag. The most exciting use of the hashtag, with a fundraising focus will be our Fundraiser of the Month – it’s that easy!

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Adventurer of the Month – Emmeline Kleyn

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Emmeline Kleyn

Cause: UNICEF
Adventure: UNICEF Everest Base Camp 2016
Social: @emmeline.ricky

As our Adventurer of the Month, Emmeline has scored herself a $100 Paddy Pallin voucher! To be our next month’s winner, make sure you’re uploading your journey to social and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired.

What inspired you to take on your first Inspired Adventure for UNICEF?

As a Qantas and UNICEF Change for Good Ambassador, I was given the opportunity to visit Myanmar on a UNICEF field trip. The trip was such an eye-opening and rewarding experience and it motivated me to do more. It was on this trip where I first heard about the trek to Everest Base Camp and I was keen to register immediately.

What made you decide to take on such a massive trek for UNICEF?

I love a challenge, especially when it is helping those who need it most. I believe that when you are granted an opportunity to help anyone in anyway, you should take it, which is why I trekked to Everest Base Camp in order to raise money for UNICEF.

You are clearly really involved and invested in the art of giving back to the community, what do you think is so exciting about being able to take on an adventure as well as give to a cause you care about?

Taking on an adventure when you know you are making a positive impact on the lives of those who are constantly faced with challenges makes it rewarding. It is so motivating when you have a goal, not only the goal of the adventure you’re undertaking, but also the goal of making a significant change.

"I believe that when you are granted an opportunity to help anyone in anyway, you should take it."

What are your total funds raised for Unicef so far? Are there any key fundraising ideas that have been the bulk of your success?

To date, I have raised $5,647.56. I found the best way to fundraise for me was to talk about my upcoming adventure to everyone, as well as posting the link to my fundraising page on all my social media accounts. I informed people of significant facts, for example, how 5 cents can provide clean drinking water for 2 days. This way people would understand how far their unwanted change would go, and know that no donation is too small.

My inspiration ✨ #mymumma #everestbasecamp #trekforchildren #nepal

A photo posted by @emmeline.ricky on

What have been some of the highlights of your fundraising experience so far?

Every time someone donated, it would make my day. Watching how quickly everyone’s donations added up was a highlight. All it takes is a little amount from lots of people and you can make a world of difference.

What have been your biggest challenges in taking on an Inspired Adventure? How did you overcome this?

Initially, I think fundraising was a challenge, because I didn’t want to feel as though I was hassling people. It was tricky to find that happy medium where you have to let people know without being too pushy. Once I found a way to fundraise, which suited my personality, I was excited to inform people of where their donations were going and what they were providing for children living in developing countries.

Have you noticed any changes or transformation in your life since taking on your first adventure?

I have always been an adventurous person with a love for travel. After this recent trip, I have discovered that I have a newfound love for trekking and I am definitely keen to go on a trek again, somewhere around the world.

"It is so motivating when you have a goal, not only the goal of the adventure you’re undertaking, but also the goal of making a significant change."

What advice would you offer to other people looking to complete a challenge like this?

What are you waiting for? Just do it!

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Become our Adventurer of the Month to win a $100 Paddy Pallin voucher

Take a picture whilst on your adventure or when you’re training and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired and your adventure hashtag. The most exciting use of the hashtag, with an adventure, and fitness focus will be our Adventurer of the Month – it’s that easy!

instagram@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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Adventurer of the Month – Jenny Watson

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Jenny Watson

Cause: UN Women Australia
Adventure: UN Women’s Ride for Rights 2016
Fundraising Page: https://rideforrights2016.everydayhero.com/au/jenny-watson
Social: @jennybirdz

As our Adventurer of the Month, Jenny has scored herself a $100 Paddy Pallin voucher! To be our next month’s winner, make sure you’re uploading your journey to social and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired.

What inspired you to take on your first Inspired Adventure for UN Women?

So many factors led me to taking on my first Inspired Adventure with UN Women but the key inspiration is my mum. Over 35 years ago, she left Vietnam along with her family in search for a better life. It takes a lot of bravery to do what they did, not knowing where they’d end up, facing dangers I can’t begin to comprehend. We are so lucky to have our family all here in Australia, but so many are not so lucky. I’m inspired to help those who stayed, who are a part of the country’s story and culture and, where I can, I’d like help their communities grow and increase their quality of life. This adventure will be nothing like her journey, I know I’ll be safe, happy and well fed, but this ride is in homage to mum’s story.

What made you decide to cycle for UN Women?

Last year I made a resolution to give back more. I looked up volunteering programs overseas because the idea of seeing the world while helping a community grow really appealed to me. UN Women is a great cause and one of the best things about this adventure is the bang for buck. For 12 days of our time, we’ve contributed over $100,000 to projects in Vietnam and Cambodia. Our funds go directly to projects that empower women in Vietnam and Cambodia. We’ve been getting project updates from UN Women and can see our funds already making a difference.

What do you think is so exciting about being able to take on an adventure as well as give to a cause you care about?

I feel like that this adventure has purpose, riding for a cause, travelling to a foreign country, camaraderie with the team … we could be just raising the funds. But there is something more engaging – more personal – by combining both the travel and contributing to a truly worthy cause. I’m so excited about visiting the project sites, meeting those making a difference directly to their communities and travelling with like-minded people.

"There is something more engaging – more personal – by combining both travel and contributing to a truly worthy cause."

What are your total funds raised for UN Women so far? Are there any key fundraising ideas that have contributed to the bulk of your success?

So far I’ve raised just over $6,000, about half of this was raised through fundraising events and the other half from donations from my network of family, friends and colleagues. I organised a high tea in October at the Burbury Hotel here in Canberra where we raised $1,500. It required a lot of work in the background, but I had so much support from the loves in my life and local businesses as well.

What have been some of the highlights of your fundraising experience so far?

Definitely the highlight is seeing donations come through from people you don’t expect. People who I met years back and hardly see, uni student friends and family, people who I have just met … seeing their names give me the biggest smile. It is a nice feeling to know that other people believe in the cause and that your support network is wider than you think.

What have been your biggest challenges in taking on an Inspired Adventure? How did you overcome this?

I think the biggest challenge was organising the fundraising events. I love organising events, shindigs and parties, but you can only stretch yourself so far. The events were very successful and fun, and I’m really lucky that I had the support of family, friends and work colleagues. My work colleagues literally just picked up an existing event they were organising and decided that all the funds went to my ride.

"This adventure will be nothing like [my mum's] journey. I know I’ll be safe, happy and well fed, but this ride is in homage to [her] story."

Have you noticed any changes or transformation in your life since taking on your first adventure?

Besides the physical changes I’ve noticed from training (oh my thighs!), I have found myself giving more to other causes, even if it’s just $10 here or there. I’m also thoroughly enjoying learning more about UN Women. The more I learn, the more I want dive in headfirst and help.

What advice would you offer to other people looking to complete a challenge like this?

Ask for help. It’s not unreasonable to fundraise the travel costs. Selling chocolates is a slow way of making a little bit of money. Remember there is a support vehicle driving behind you the whole way so just do it!

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Become our Adventurer of the Month to win a $100 Paddy Pallin voucher

Take a picture whilst on your adventure or when you’re training and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired and your adventure hashtag. The most exciting use of the hashtag, with an adventure, and fitness focus will be our Adventurer of the Month – it’s that easy!

instagram@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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Fundraiser of the Month – Jami Hill

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Jami Hill

Cause: The Leukemia Foundation
Adventure: Leukaemia Foundation: Machu Picchu Challenge 2016
Fundraising Page: my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/jami
Social: https://www.facebook.com/jamifundraising/

As our Fundraiser of the Month, Jami has scored herself a $50 donation to her fundraising page! To be our next month’s winner, make sure you’re uploading your journey to social and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired.

What inspired you to take on your first Inspired Adventure for the Leukaemia Foundation?

I love volunteering so there are many things that have motivated me to take on my first Inspired Adventure, but the biggest would be to fundraise for a fantastic foundation and give back to people that really need support. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at the age of 7 and received 3 years of chemotherapy at Princess Margaret Hospital in Perth. As a family unit we were luckily enough to be supported by many foundations and not-for-profits such as the Leukaemia Foundation and Ronald McDonald House. I have completed Shave for a Cure several times but I love the idea of raising money for the foundation that also combines setting myself rewarding goals. Training for Machu Picchu is a great challenge that is incredibly empowering, especially post chemotherapy.

How are you feeling about the challenge ahead?

A combination of nervous excitement and overly enthusiastic motivation!  I have quite high standards for myself and combining full time work, with part time university, a training schedule and fundraising has already provided some tricky situations and the need for proactive management. I have already learnt a lot about myself and we are still a few months out from the trek! I am looking forward to pushing my own expectations of what I think my body is capable of doing.  Keeping in touch with other trekkers through social media is such a great way of motivating yourself and keeping that enthusiasm going. I have wanted to explore South America for years so I cannot wait to immerse myself in local culture.

What have been some of your more successful fundraising ideas so far?

I’ve found most of my support has come through social media. You do run the risk of spamming family and friends, however if you switch it up with interesting pictures or funny memes it engages people from another level rather than them just scrolling past ‘another fundraising post’. My recent idea has just become a reality! I have managed to have some Machu Picchu sports singlets designed as a fundraiser for family, friends and trekkers. I used the design and slogan brainstorming as way to engage people on Facebook and Instagram.  The sponsors for the singlets; Fremantle Indoor Beach Volleyball, Blend Pizza & Café, Range to Reef Environmental, Two of Three Design and Fremantle Health Food Store have enabled me to have the design and production done without spending out of my own pocket, which means all the money from the singlets will be able to be donated to the Leukaemia Foundation! I also created some bright and colourful flyers about my story to go with collection tins into staff rooms, cafes and offices. I’ve found that making the trek and cause relevant to the local community makes it more personal and engaging.

"Work out what your motivation is and be very clear on your goal and what your own expectations are for yourself."

What have been some of the highlights of your fundraising experience so far?

I have thoroughly enjoyed the hiking whenever possible (and so has my dog!). The most fantastic feeling is the local community and the support they have offered.  I have barely had to ask for help, which is probably the hardest and most uncomfortable part about fundraising. The horrible truth is nearly everyone knows someone effected by blood cancers and not everyone is lucky enough to have an outcome like mine.  If we can make a better brighter future for those that will be diagnosed, whether it be their treatment or even the level of care and support services, then it’s well worth the effort.

What have been your biggest challenges in taking on an Inspired Adventure? How did you overcome this?

As I mentioned before my time management is fairly average! Making a schedule and combining catching up with friends with hikes or beach walks has been fantastic. I also find asking for help and especially for donations incredibly difficult. I know how many charities are out there and how bad our local job market is here in Perth – which is one of the reasons I wanted to make a singlet. That way there is something tangible and functional that people are making a donation for.

Have you noticed any changes or transformation in your life since taking on your first adventure?

Health and fitness were already a big priority but it has now become more of a daily focus in achieving the goals I set myself. I have become more engaged with the local community and made some great relationships with local businesses. I have also discovered I can do a lot more than I thought was ever possible!

"I have already learnt a lot about myself and we are still a few months out from the trek! I am looking forward to pushing my own expectations of what I think my body is capable of doing."

What are you most looking forward to about your upcoming adventure to Peru?

The culture! I plan on learning some basic Spanish (maybe if we add another day into the week?) and love meeting people and learning about their story. It gives you an opportunity to see the place you are in immersed in from another perspective. Peru has such an incredible history so it will be fantastic to be there and experience it all. Lastly, I am really looking forward to meeting the other amazing trekkers from around Australia. We all seem to have unique experiences but have the same goals and motivations, which I imagine shall make for a memorable and very special trip!

What advice would you offer to other people looking to complete a challenge like this?

My advice would be to talk about it with family and friends before committing, make sure you have the time and money available. Fundraising whilst also trying to save money doesn’t make the experience as fun as it should be!  My other suggestion would be to work out what your motivation is – be very clear on your goal and what your own expectations are for yourself.  Make sure you share the workload and even though it is uncomfortable – ask people for help! Trust me, you will be very surprised with the number of people that genuinely want to help you achieve your goal!

Fundraiser of the month

Become our Fundraiser of the Month to win a $50 donation to your fundraising page!

Take a picture and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired and your adventure hashtag. The most exciting use of the hashtag, with a fundraising and charity focus will be our Fundraiser of the Month – it’s that easy!

instagram@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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Jessica Stokes

Cause: UN Women Australia
Adventure: UN Women’s Ride for Rights 2016
Fundraising Page: https://rideforrights2016.everydayhero.com/au/jessica-stokes
Social: @jessicapstokes

As our Adventurer of the Month, Jessica has scored herself a $100 Paddy Pallin voucher! To be our next month’s winner, make sure you’re uploading your journey to social and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired.

Tell us about yourself

I am a lawyer, empowerment coach and public speaker living in Perth, Western Australia. For the past few years I have known that I had a greater purpose than the insurance legal work I was doing.  Being aware that there was a purpose I hadn’t yet discovered allowed me to really keep my eyes open and last year I decided to stop being scared and start my own coaching and resilience training business to empower female professionals in Perth. I wanted to transform people’s lives through positive change and strategic intervention. My mission is to coach and empower women to take control of their life and become who they want to be.

What inspired you to take on your first Inspired Adventure for UN Women?

In July 2015 I received an email from UN Women asking me to join their Ride for Rights across Vietnam and Cambodia and experience firsthand the work of UN Women. The email stated a few facts that horrified me. Women represent 2/3rds of the poor in Asia. Just 19 per cent of Parliamentarians in Asia are women. As many as 2 in 3 women in the Pacific will experience violence – and too many of these are girls, under the age of 16. But… together with UN Women I could change all that!

It makes me feel very uncomfortable to think that as a female, I have a better chance of thriving because I was born in Australia as opposed to Vietnam or Cambodia or somewhere else. Strong people protect others. Man or woman, society’s strongest stand up and speak out because they know silence isn’t a good enough response to injustice. I wanted to lend my support and voice to this important movement to empower women and girls to break the cycle of poverty and violence and build a brighter future. I care about this problem and I wanted to make it better.

What made you decide to cycle for UN Women?

After requesting further information I decided that this 12-day cycle journey was an excellent opportunity to travel, get fit and raise funds for UN Women. I saw cycling as the best way to see as much of Vietnam and Cambodia as possible whilst also getting healthy and committing to some much needed exercise. Cycling was something I started doing with my dad and was also a cheap way of getting in and out of work in the city so it made sense to incorporate riding into my daily routine.

I was particularly drawn to Ride for Rights, as all funds raised will support women’s economic empowerment in the Asia Pacific region. Knowledge is power and I wanted to do everything I could to empower women to transform their lives and their communities. The women, girls and families that are assisted by this fundraising are incredibly hard working, humble and honest families who just need the support of economic programmes such as the ones UN Women provides. Although we have travelled far in international’s women’s rights, we still have far to go. Women need equality. Women need to be equal participants in their homes, societies, and governments and in our workplaces. The world is being held back in every because of they are not. Women share this planet 50/50 and they are being unrepresented. Their potential is astonishingly untapped.

"Knowledge is power and I wanted to do everything I could to empower women to transform their lives and their communities."

What do you think is so exciting about being able to take on an adventure as well as give to a cause you care about?

I was inspired to join this adventure to get out of my comfort zone and make a real impact in the world. I wanted to join 23 other riders who are passionate about the work of UN Women and join them in an incredible adventure to create a brighter future for women and girls. I wanted to visit a UN Women project in Dong Thap that helps females and communities’ better prevent, prepare for and mitigate the impacts of natural disaster. I wanted to visit UN Women projects in Phnom Penh working to empower young leaders and develop better community organisations driving the progress to better advocate for their rights and end sexual and physical violence against women. I wanted to travel with purpose and have a passion for adventure. I wanted to see the work of UN Women on the ground. I wanted to experience the vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes of Vietnam and Cambodia and get inspired by the work of UN Women all while challenging myself on a cycle journey like no other.

What are your total funds raised for UN Women so far? Are there any key fundraising ideas that have been the bulk of your success?

I exceeded my initial target of $3,000 and I have raised almost $4,400 for UN Women so far. The bulk of the money raised came from direct donations from family, friends and colleagues. I sent personalised emails to family, friends and people in my network outlining the cause and requesting a donation. The most successful fundraising event I ran was the release of Suffragette. Almost 100 people attended and I raised over $2,300.

My first event was a Clothes Swap High Tea where a small group of girlfriends came round with unwanted clothes and accessories. I charged $40 and raised $320. I organised the food and had a gift voucher donated by Cooper & Laurie as a door prize. All clothing items that did not find a home were donated to Dress for Success a not-for-profit organisation offering long-lasting solutions that enable women to break the cycle of poverty.

What have been your biggest challenges in taking on an Inspired Adventure? How did you overcome this?

One of the biggest challenges for me was believing that I could meet my fundraising target of $3,000 and cover the travel costs. I was extremely nervous when deciding to sign up for the ride, which happened whilst I was working as a lawyer. The decision to leave my previous job was not exactly planned and I was under enormous stress trying to come up with the funding to cover the travel costs as well as meet the fundraising target. However, I realised there will never be a point in your life where it’s the right time to do a great thing. You have to create the perfect time, the perfect opportunity and the perfect situation. A lot of people become comfortable, they become satisfied. I was going to a job that I didn’t like a job that was making me sick. When you’re not pursuing your goal you are literally committing spiritual suicide. When you have goals that you are reaching for and striving for that get you out of your comfort zone such as fundraising and training you find out talents and abilities that you never knew you had.

Have you noticed any changes or transformation in your life since taking on your first adventure?

I have started to embrace pain in my life to effect real change. I am getting up earlier to cycle with my dad at least 3-4 times a week. I have realised that today is all that matters. There are 86400 seconds in a day. How you use those seconds are critical.

I have realised that I need to do what is hard and the only one that can keep me from winning is me. I have realised it’s possible to live my dream of helping change women’s lives but its necessary to be committed and a plan of action. I am a natural born life coach. I have talents that I have hidden for a long time. I want to help others and help myself.  Unless you attempt to do something beyond that what you have already mastered you will never grow. There’s an old African proverb that says “If there’s no enemy within then the enemy outside can do us no harm.” I was scared. Scared of what? Scared of failure. Scared I’m not perfect. Then I realised I don’t have to be perfect. Courage is feeling the fear and doing it anyway. When you are serving others you are not afraid. I decided I needed to focus on what I can do to help others in order to help myself. The fastest way to change your state is movement. The cure for fear is action.

"I have realised that today is all that matters. There are 86400 seconds in a day. How you use those seconds are critical."

What advice would you offer to other people looking to complete a challenge like this?

When you want to succeed as much as you want to breathe then you’ll be successful. You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. Fear is what stops you. Courage is what keeps you going. It’s not who you are that holds you back. It’s who you think you’re not. The reason we grow is so we have something to give of value. Things don’t always work out the way we’d like. When you don’t give up, you cannot fail. We cannot change the cards we were dealt. It’s never too late to start again. Believe in yourself, even when no one else believes in you.

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Become our Adventurer of the Month to win a $100 Paddy Pallin voucher

Take a picture whilst on your adventure or when you’re training and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired and your adventure hashtag. The most exciting use of the hashtag, with an adventure, and fitness focus will be our Adventurer of the Month – it’s that easy!

instagram@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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The Most Ethical Places to Visit in 2016

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2016 is well underway and by now you’re probably already dreaming of your next holiday. We’re with you; we can’t wait for our next adventure either! Now the question remains: where should you go? You’ve probably done the research, and found that some of the hot picks for this year include Japan, USA, Greenland and good old Australia! And whilst we think all of these places offer unique and wonderful cultural experiences, our choices for this year are a little different.

This year, we’re feeling drawn to destinations that are doing ‘good’ for the globe. We’ve found places that are doing everything in their power to promote human rights, preserve the environment and support social welfare for their country and its people.

Every year, Ethical Traveler review the policies and practices of nations in the developing world. They then choose the top ten that are living the most ethically, all while creating a lively and exciting tourism industry. We’re totally on board!

As Ethical Traveler reminds us no country is perfect. All of the top 10 countries listed have their shortcomings, yet are making an effort to do the right thing in the areas they take into consideration.

So here are the 2016 Ten Best Ethical Destinations (listed alphabetically). We urge you to consider them when planning your next big adventure!

Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde is a stunning nation that sits on a volcanic archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa. It’s famous for its variety of inspiring beaches and shipwrecks you can dive amongst.

What to see:

Mt Fogo
Mt Fogo, Cabo Verde’s highest peak, rises out of an ancient crater known as Chã das Caldeiras. The volcano is still active, with its last eruption occurring in 1995, yet you can still climb it!

Pont d’Agua
A little slice of paradise, Pont d’Agua is lined with palm trees and swanky restaurants. If you’re after a kind of South of France feel, then this is the place to be!

Global goodness: 

Cabo Verde is also on a mission to get half of their energy from renewable resources, whilst doing a lot of work to protect the endangered animals on their shores. They’re also one of the most gender equal African nations.

Dominica

If you want to escape the masses, check out Dominica. There are so many amazing things to do here including trekking to hot sulphur springs, swimming up a narrow gorge, visiting cascading waterfalls and more.

What to see:

Boiling Lake and Trafalgar Falls
Dominica’s most famous spring is a volcanically heated, steam-covered Boiling Lake within Morne Trois Pitons National Park. The preserve features rainforests, sulphur vents, the twin waterfalls of Trafalgar Falls and narrow Titou Gorge. Further over to the west is Dominica’s capital, Roseau, with colourful timber houses and botanic gardens.

Globe goodness: 

Dominica has the best access to healthcare of any other Caribbean nation, as well as top-notch political and civil rights.

Grenada

Grenada is a Caribbean country covering a main island, also called Grenada, and 6 smaller surrounding islands. Dubbed the “Spice Isle,” the hilly main island is home to numerous nutmeg plantations.

What to see:

Nutmeg Processing Cooperative

As you wander around town, the smell of nutmeg is never far away, especially when you visit the Nutmeg Processing Cooperative. This large nutmeg processing station is an enormous shop where nutmeg is sorted. Racks are covered with a huge amount of fruit from trees that descended from the first nutmeg plants planted in Grenada by the British in 1843.

Pingouin Beach
Once your nose tires of too much nutmeg, an escape to Pingouin Beach is just what you need. Known for its powdery white sands and warm tanzanite waters, Pingouin Beach is a little slice of heaven (and not to mention a great place to snorkel!)

Global goodness: 

A major country in the fight to stop climate change, Grenada is doing a lot of work to protect their coral reefs. It has also taken steps towards providing equal rights for the LGBT community.

Micronesia (Federated States)

Micronesia is a sub-region of Oceania and features many small islands in the western Pacific Ocean.

What to see:

Nan Madol
Off the shores of a tiny island in the middle of the vast Pacific Ocean are the ruins of an ancient civilization. The remains of Nan Madol are the only standing monuments of a civilization built entirely over open water, on a coral reef. It’s pretty awe-inspiring!

Ethnic Art Village
Micornesia does a fabulous job of celebrating and preserving indigenous art. At the Ethnic Art Village in Yap, the village elders teach their craftsmanship and techniques to younger artists.

Global goodness: 

It has a shared cultural history with Polynesia to the east and Melanesia to the south. Micronesia is working towards 30 per cent renewable energy by 2020, and are also forming a lot of protected areas on their islands.

Mongolia

Travellers often overlook Mongolia, known for its rugged landscapes and nomadic dwelling. Once the heartland of an empire stretching to Europe under Genghis Khan, Mongolia is a landlocked country featuring sporadically populated grassland and desert.

What to see:

Chinggis Khaan (Sükhbaatar) Square
Chinggis Khaan Square is the city centre of Mongolia’s capital, Ulaanbaatar. Peaceful anti-communism protests were held here in 1990, which ushered in the era of democracy. Today, the square is occasionally used for rallies, ceremonies and festivals, but is generally a relaxed place where locals and tourists alike come to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Choijin Lama Temple Museum
If you’re after history and culture, look no further than downtown Ulaanbaatar where you will find Choijin Lama Temple Museum. This gem of architecture and history was home to Luvsan Haidav Choijin Lama, the state oracle.

Global goodness:

Mongolia has the lowest number of unemployed civilians on the list, and is also the best at providing end of life-care for its people.

Panama

From beautiful crystal seas to the coffee farms and cloud forests of Chiriquí, Panama is a place you can relax or seek adventure. From trekking through stunning rainforests to sailing between unspoiled tropical islands, Panama will inspire a sense of wonder in anyone who visits.

What to see:

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo
For some local and authentic art, check out Museo de Arte Contemporáneo. This privately owned museum features the grandest collection of Panamanian art, as well as the occasional exhibition by a foreign artist.

Nivida Bat Cave
If you can handle some scare factor, why not take a visit to the Nivida Bat Cave? This natural wonder is a massive cavern that is swarming with nectar bats. For the braver souls, you might even like to take a dip in the subterranean lake whilst you’re there.

Global goodness:

Panama have also gone to great lengths to restore their rainforest and promote sustainability. Panama has approved conventions on ending child labour (amazing!) and has also banned dog fighting and greyhound racing.

Samoa

From the insane surfing, to the arts, culture and lip-smacking cuisine, Samoa isn’t known as the Treasured Islands of the South Pacific for nada!

What to see:

To Sua Ocean Trench

You know those overly-instagrammed cavernous lagoons that look so inviting but also a little bit terrifying at the same time? The Sua Ocean Trench is just that, and while it’s not so much a trench as two sinkhole-like depressions, it is certainly enchanting.

Lava Fields
When Samoa’s Mt Matavanu erupted between 1905 and 1991, it created a moonscape in Savai’i’s northeastern corner as lava moved through plantations and villages. There are many fascinating sites you can visit that were ruined by the lava, including several churches.

Global goodness:

Samoa plans to rely on 100% renewable energy sources by 2016. They’ve also taken big steps towards ending domestic violence and monitoring the human rights of women, children and civilians with disabilities.

Tonga

Tonga sits just east of the international dateline, so it’s said by many locals that Tonga is ‘the place where time begins.’

What to see:

Mapu’a ‘a Vaca Blowholes
When the weather is just right at Mapu’a ‘a Vaca, you might be lucky enough to experience hundreds of blowholes spurting at once. Your best bet for the ultimate show is going on a windy day when the swell is strong.

Mu’a
For some archaeological history, Mu’a is the place you want to visit. It contains the deepest concentration of archaeological relics in Tonga. There are 28 royal stone tombs in the area, which were built with enormous limestone slabs carried by canoes.

Global goodness:

This sun-drenched country topped the list in terms of environmental protection. They are doing a lot of work when it comes to fighting climate change.

Tuvalu

The tiny isles of Tuvalu paint the perfect picture as you approach from the air, however, this independent island nation is under threat by rising sea levels. Surrounded by a fringe of coconut palms, these tiny islets are barely higher than the sea. Tuvalu is now part of the Vulnerable 20 group, which aims to put pressure on the rest of the world to start taking steps to prevent the worst effects of climate change.

What to see

Funafuti Marine Conservation Area
The Funafuti Marine Conservation covers 33 sq km of reef, lagoons and island habitats. Here you can snorkel, trek, and partake in some picnicking or bird watching!

Nanumea Atoll
Nanumea Atoll is one of Tuvalu’s most gorgeous islands, featuring a fresh-water pond and a church, and makes for a great day visit. Interestingly, the only way to reach the island is by a government supply ship!

Global goodness:

The Funafuti Marine Conservation area is working towards a more ecologically sustainable future as no fishing, hunting or gathering is allowed on these five isles.

Uruguay

Uruguay is slowly but surely gaining a name for itself after living in the shadow of its neighbours Brazil and Argentina. If you’re searching for something a little less than touristy, Uruguay will offer you a whole lot of local culture and more.

What to see:

Punta del Diablo
For a truly local experience, Punta del Diablo is the place to head. It’s the prime summer getaway fro Uruguayans and Argentines with its laid-back lifestyle and beautiful beaches.

Centro de Tortugas Marinas
The Centre for Marine Turtles is a great place for all your turtle-y needs! They provide information on where you can spot these green beauties and they also run a volunteer program that educates visitors on environmental factors that are threatening the turtles and their homes.

Global Goodness: 

Uruguay ranks the highest in regards to social welfare with a long life expectancy, a great education system and a solid standard of living.

 

( * = also appeared on the 2015 list).

Feeling inspired?

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How to set goals in 2016

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If you’re anything like me, 2015 has passed through in the blink of an eye, with plenty of unexpected twists, laughs, destinations ticked off the bucket list and a fair amount of “things I wanted to do but didn’t get around to.”

Looking forward to next year, I am resolute that I will be able to look back on 2016 – whether it’s learning something new, taking on a challenge or finally making a start on my home decorating plan – and tick some items off my always growing list.

So how do you really set goals and stick to them? I’ve spoken to friends, done the internet research and read the inspirational Instagram posts so you don’t have to! Here is an easy step-by-step guide on how to make your 2016 goals actually happen.

1) Be fair to yourself

This is the big one. Don’t try to do everything at once. Although the idea of becoming fluent in three new languages, running an ultra-marathon or finally saving enough for the 6 month trip through South and Central America sounds incredibly appealing on paper, in reality you are setting yourself up for failure. Pick one goal. Work towards it. Achieve it. Then pick the next goal.

2) Get started

So you’ve picked your goal. Now stop talking about it and do it. Put on the trainers, sign up to that evening class. Repeat.

3) Find an accountability buddy

Now the matter of keeping to your goals. If you have a friend/colleague/acquaintance who wants to do the same thing as you, then great! Support each other and swap tips.

However, even if you have a goal no-one else is sharing, you can still find an accountability buddy. One of my friends is learning a new language, and her colleague is setting up a blog. Every day, they commit to doing just 10 minutes of work a day towards their individual goals, texting each other to let them know what the other has done. Then, every fortnight they catch up for a coffee, update each other one what they have achieved, and what they want to achieve in the next two weeks.

4) Set check-ins along the way

Break your goal into bite-sized pieces by setting yourself small goals along the way. When you have a manageable amount to achieve in the next week or month, you can slowly and surely progress towards the big goal.

One friend sets himself goals every year, and smaller goals every month, and spends time every Sunday checking in on what he has achieved. By breaking it into weekly check-ins, a big goal for the year becomes a lot more achievable, and spending a little bit of time checking in and being honest with yourself allows you to adapt your journey along the way.

5) Set deadlines

Aim high and have a definition of what success looks like to you. Whether it’s crossing the finish line of a marathon, reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro, ordering in Spanish from a restaurant in Madrid, or finally standing up on your surfboard, find what success means to you. Then set yourself a date. Book the marathon. Book the flights.

Feeling Inspired?

Visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar to set yourself an adventure goal for the New Year.

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Mountains of the world: The best mountain ranges

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It’s no secret Team Inspired love a good mountain. There is no other feeling like standing on the top of a mountain or looking up at a range from a valley. While it’s impossible to pick a favourite, to celebrate ‪#‎WorldMountainDay‬, here are 5 of the most stunning mountains of the world.

The Peruvian Andes

Peru inspires wonder at every turn. From high mountains to lush valleys, traditional Quechuan villages and mystical Inca ruins, this beautiful country beams with cultural pride. There’s Sacred Valley, the classic Inca Trail, Lares Valley and of course, stunning Machu Picchu and Huyana Picchu (the mountain perched up behind Machu Picchu). We love Peru!

Learn more about the Inca Trail and the Lares Trail. 

The Nepalese Himalayas

By day you will experience the majesty of the Himalayas together with a team of local guides and sherpas. At night you will fall asleep in traditional lodges and teahouses in remote Nepalese villages.

Mount Everest is the world’s highest mountain. It’s located in the Mahalangur mountain range. There are many other incredible mountain ranges and personally, we also love Annapurna! You’ll find the altitude is slightly lower on the trek through Annapurna, the scenery is diverse with more opportunities to meet and interact with locals.

Find out more about Everest and Annapurna. 

The mountains of Bhutan

Tiger’s Nest Monastery (also known as Taktsang Monastery) is a Buddhist temple complex which clings to a cliff, 3,120 meters above the sea level on the side of the upper Paro valley of Bhutan. Of all the mountains of the world, this is truly incredible to see!

Check out Bhutan

Ladahk, Indian Himalayas

Ladakh is renowned for its remote mountain beauty and culture. Experience the beauty of an alpine desert set against the snow-capped peaks of the Indian Himalayas. The popular trekking destinations are Zanskar, Indus Valley and Kargil.

The culture-rich land of Ladakh is located in Jammu and Kashmir. Ladakh not only offers something for adventure enthusiasts but also tourists who want to explore Indian culture, and learn about Buddhism. Exploring this destination, you’ll have the chance to meet local villagers and learn about their lives.

Go to Ladakh

Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa, 4,600m high, is the world’s highest freestanding mountain.

On this 12-day adventure, you will be pushed to your limit as you climb through five different climatic zones with the support of experienced guides. Trekking from cultivated farmlands to lush rainforest, through alpine meadow and across the barren lunar-like landscape to the summit, you’ll witness the incredible sight of the sun rising over the East African plains below.

Conquer Kilimanjaro

Feeling Inspired?

Visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar to find your mountain!

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Fundraiser of The Month – Elizabeth Mallet

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 Name: Elizabeth Mallett (Lizzi)
Cause: NeuRA – (Neuroscience Research Australia).
Adventure: NeuRA Memory Cycle – Vietnam and Cambodia 2015 and Great Wall of China Discovery Trek 2016

Lizzi’s Inspired journey has been a beautiful one to be a part of. She overcame her doubts and fears, driven by the kindness offered to her by NeuRA to take a challenge that took her well outside her comfort zone. Lizzi is now training and fundraising for her second Inspired Adventure, heading to The Great Wall of China in April next year. If you are in need of some inspiration, her story is the one to read!

Liz

“My journey with NeuRA started twelve years ago when my dad was first diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease and Fronto Temporal Dementia. I was only 15 years old at the time and had never heard of this disease. I was confused and scared for my dad, however, our medical researcher at NeuRA explained what was happening to my dad in a way that I could understand. Since then, NeuRA has been a huge support for my family during dad’s illness and after his passing seven years ago. I always wanted to do something more to help raise awareness and give back to NeuRA.

The first trip was the Memory Cycle from Vietnam to Cambodia. I was sceptical at first as I didn’t think I could raise the money being on my own in Sydney nor was I a cyclist. Who was going to be on the trip with me? And how can I keep up with them? So many doubts went through my head however I overcame these when I started my social media campaign and raised over $5,000. I managed to raise funds through emails and Facebook postings. I had a campaign where people donated $10 for each kilometre I rode for one day of the month. I clocked up my kilometres doing laps in Centennial Park in Randwick. When the time came to go on my trip, the group of people I was with were the most inspiring, caring and like-minded people, and I quickly realised that I was very lucky to be on this trip. Each day was harder than the last, but I stuck it out and managed to cycle the whole lot. It was determination but also mind over matter that got me through the distance. The team and I supported each other through the whole trip which has resulted in lasting friendships.

When the China trip came up, this seemed like a great trip to go on with my brother. After seeing what I achieved with my fundraising, he wanted to have a go and we thought we could do this trip together. I’m very excited to do the fundraising and the Great Wall of China trek with my family involved this time round as it’s a life changing experience that we can share together.

I have moved back to Perth and started organising events to raise the money. I figured that since I have exhausted the online option of fundraising that I would have better luck raising the money in events and it will be a lot more fun than sitting at home typing away at the computer. It gives us an opportunity to educate people about the diseases that affected our lives and the work that NeuRA does. Doing trips like these gets people interested and they start asking questions. I have had so many random people stop me and ask what it is I am doing (usually doing some random poses in my NeuRA top or cycling with my white bike) then this gives me a chance to explain my fundraising for NeuRA and what NeuRA’s research means to me.

Sometimes you have to put yourself out there to make a difference. Stepping out of my comfort zone and going on the cycle trip was the best thing I have done. It’s given me the courage and confidence to do crazy stunts that get people’s attention and allows me to spread the word and expose NeuRA to a whole range of people. Not only have I raised funds for NeuRA but I have educated people and become someone they can approach to talk to about dementia, MND, stroke, Alzheimers and you anything else you can name. Passion for your cause really makes a difference to how you fundraise as anyone can fundraise for anything these days. So bringing your heart and soul into it makes you stand out above the rest. Don’t be afraid to tell your story as you never know who is out there needing to hear it and wanting to speak to someone who will understand. We go on these trips to make a difference and in the end we do so one way or another.”

Lizzi and bike

As our Fundraiser of the Month, Lizzi has won a $50 donation to her fundraising page for NeuRA. If you would like to be our next Fundraiser or Adventurer of the Month, simply share your Inspired Journey on social media and tag #IveBeenInspired.

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How to train for a marathon

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Rather than letting life get in the way, we want to get you on track to finally take on a marathon. Many people who run a marathon feel anxious about it and think they’ll never be able to finish the race. We are here to say: you can do it!

No matter your level of fitness, with determination and some commitment, you can cross the marathon finish line.

Running a marathon isn’t just about fitness and athleticism, many people run marathons in support of a charity or cause. Charities greatly rely upon brave people taking up the challenge – with many people using the combined goal of taking on a marathon and becoming first-time fundraisers for a cause close to their heart.

If you’ve ever wanted to travel around Europe or the USA, there are international marathons that you can be part of – including New York, Paris and Berlin. A marathon is one of the most authentic ways to see a city – and what better way to experience a new country by running through different areas, shoulder-to-shoulder with other runners while the locals cheer you on.

Close up of feet of a runner

Of all the sports to take up, running is one of the most accessible. You don’t even need to join a gym. In fact, you need to follow these two simple steps:

1) Buy a good pair of running shoes and socks. It’s worth investing time at the beginning by visiting a specialist running shop, as they will be able to recommend the best shoe for you.
2) Now get running.

If you aren’t typically a runner, keep at it. The first run will be hard, we won’t lie. The second time will be slightly more comfortable. Every time you run, it will get easier.

And if the couch is looking like a more appealing prospect, here is some inspiration to get you motivated:

  • Watch The Runners 
  • Rent Run Fatboy Run
  • Read Running Like a Girl by Alexandra Hemsley
  • Watch Eddie Izzard: Marathon Man

Once you’re up off the couch and with trainers on, we’ve compiled a list of resources (all free!) to help you build a training plan:

  • Inspired Adventures will send you a training guide when you first sign up for a challenge. If you want a preview, the internet has many – including these guides at Runner’s World 
  • Join a running group local to you. There’s nothing like running with other people to keep your training interesting, and these clubs will often have drills and other sessions to help prepare you. Nike also does a free Run Club
  • Download an app. Some of our favourites include Strava and RunKeeper which both help to measure your pace and keep track of your training week to week. Spotify has just launched “Spotify Running,” which matches music to your tempo to keep you going.
  • Set goals along the way. Parkrun is a 5km run every Saturday morning. You should also sign up for smaller running events between now and your big marathon. There are lots of 10 km runs that will boost your confidence, introduce you to event running and get you excited for the main event.

Feeling inspired?

  • Find an Inspired Adventure’s marathon challenge perfect for you here.