Tag Archives: Travel tips

5 Tips For Eco Friendly Travelling

Whether you’re planning a new adventure or you’re set to jet soon, we’ve rounded up a few simple tips to make your journey greener.

1. Walk, Cycle or Take Public Transport

Reduce your carbon footprint by opting for eco-friendly modes of transportation. If you’re sightseeing, hire a bike or take public transport – you’ll enjoy the social and economic benefits too! Just got off a long haul flight? Stretch your legs by walking to your destinations. The World Health Organisation recommends individuals should increase their physical activity to 10,000 steps per day to improve health and vitality – glow green more like it!

2. Be Water Wise

Plastic water bottles are one of the main culprits generating an enormous amount of waste in Australia and around the world. To help reduce the number of plastic bottles going into landfill and the environment, consume your h20 on the go with refillable BPA-free water bottles.

As the old adage goes, “Water, water everywhere, nor any drop to drink!” Two-thirds of the global population live under conditions of severe water scarcity, affecting more than 1 billion people. Every drop is sacred and should be conserved. Be shower smart by limiting your showers to just one per day and turn the water off while your scrub, shampoo and condition. Keep it short, turn taps off properly and recycle your towel – you’d do that at home anyway, right? Go that extra green mile by packing eco-friendly, organic body care products such as body wash and hair care – they won’t pollute the water going down the drain.

3. Preserve Energy

This one is pretty easy; just adapt your home life to hotel life. You can do this by leaving the trusty ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on your door for most of your stay. Housekeeping wouldn’t be vacuuming your floor and cleaning your bathrooms every day at home, so why do they need to abroad? If you run out of amenities, simply request them at the front desk.

Always ensure all lights and electrical appliances are switched off before you leave the room – just like you would at home.

4. Participate in eco-friendly activities

Skip the helicopter or speedboat ride and go snorkelling, climbing or hiking! You will not only soak up the natural beauty of your surroundings, you’ll be minimising your environmental impact and reducing the use of fossil fuels.

Don’t let the TV hold you captive while you’re on holiday. Put the remote down and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of your destination. Meet the locals, try the cuisine and explore everything that passport stamp has to offer.

5. Travel Lightly

The less you pack, the less fuel your mode of transport will use. Keep your nomadic wardrobe minimal and opt for lightweight, warm, versatile, wrinkle-free and quick drying pieces. With less weight on your back, you will also glide through the gates with ease.

Craving a new adventure?

Check out the upcoming challenges on our 2018 calendar and find your next adventure!

5 Tips For Packing Light

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Whether you’re about to embark on your first overseas adventure or you’re whisking yourself away for the weekend, the most important rule of thumb for travellers is to not weigh yourself down.

To help you travel light, we’ve rounded up 5 simple tips so that you can master the art of packing smart!

1. Don’t leave it to the last minute

While we understand that life can get busy and time can get lost, a common rookie error for travellers is leaving the packing to the last minute. If you’re rushing or tired, you’re more likely to forget the essentials – and we’re not talking about your toothbrush. Think important travel documents, medication and that incredible DSLR camera sitting beside your bed.

Give yourself enough time to thoughtfully process and plan out your checklist. This will also allow you to include smart staples to help lighten your load.

2. Opt for lightweight clothing

Your sightseeing capsule wardrobe should include lightweight, warm, versatile, wrinkle-free and quick drying pieces. Merino wool is a popular all-round natural fabric that will become your lifeline on the road. It will keep you warm in frosty conditions and cool in humidity – plus unlike synthetic fabrics, merino wool is odour resistant – so perfect for multiple wears!

3. Roll, don't fold

While rolling may not necessarily lighten your load, it will certainly help you maximise your space, combat creased clothing and help keep your bag organised. This simple tactic is perfect for your carry-on luggage where bulky culprits reside.

4. Minimalism is a must

Some like to stay stylish while they stride, but your time abroad will be infinitely easier if you just pack the basics alongside a few statement pieces. We’re not saying cute and cosy can’t co-exist; you just have to exercise your creative flair by mixing, matching and layering your garments.

What about your feet? Opt for a neutral pair of everyday shoes that are comfortable, waterproof and practical for your destination.

5. Choose the right luggage

Depending on the location, type and length of your adventure, try to limit the number of bags you’ll be carrying. Steer clear of awkwardly large and heavy suitcases that will drag you down while you try to navigate your way through busy crowds. If possible, try stick to luggage that is within the carry-on bag size limits (your arms will thank you!).

Did we just give you the travel bug? Check out the upcoming challenges on our 2018 calendar and find your next adventure!

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Mount Kilimanjaro: A Photographic Journey

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You’ll never forget the moment you first see it, soaring high above the farmlands of Tanzania, and you’ll never forget that moment when you reach the top. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience – and hard to describe until you’ve done it.

Following the lesser-travelled Rongai Route, you’ll trek for 7-days through five climatic zones, giving you a chance to acclimatise and make the most of the incredible scenery. You’ll pass through ice fields and alpine meadows – and you’ll see extraordinary wildlife in Tanzania’s rainforests. Our camp sites are pretty special too: you’ll sleep by mountain lakes and in the shadow of glaciers. It’s an incredible opportunity to share an adventure and camaraderie with your co-workers.

Climbing Kilimanjaro will challenge you on every level, but the rewards are immense.

Day 1: Simba Camp

Today’s walk begins in the village of Nale Moru (1,950m). We set off on a small path that winds its way through cornfields before entering pine forest, home to a variety of wildlife. A gradual ascent through amazing forests brings us to the edge of the moorland zone. Tonight is our first night camping on the mountain.

Elevation: 2,600m
Trekking distance: 3-4 hours

Day 2: Kikelewa Camp

In the morning, we start off on a steep climb to reach ‘Second Cave’ (3,450m). Here we are rewarded with superb views of Kibo and the eastern icefields of the crater rim. After lunch we continue on through the moorland towards Mawenzi peaks, before setting up camp near Kikelewa Caves.

Elevation: 3,800m
Trekking distance: 7-9 hours

Day 3: Mawenzi Tarn

Today’s walk is shorter than yesterday but involves some steep sections as we climb to Mawenzi Tarn, the only permanent mountain lake on Kilimanjaro. We begin with a short but steep climb through grassy fields that offer stunning views in every direction. We leave the vegetation zone behind us and arrive at our campsite at Mawenzi Tarn, nestled beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi.

Elevation: 4,300m
Trekking distance: 3-4 hours

Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn acclimatisation

This is our acclimatisation day. To maximise your chances of making it to the summit we will combine some brief walks with plenty of rest.

Elevation: None
Trekking distance: Varied

Day 5: Kibo Camp

Today we will trek across the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo, a sparse moon-like landscape scattered with rocks. After arriving at Kibo, Kilimanjaro base camp, we have time to rest in preparation for the final summit ascent.

Elevation: 4,730m
Trekking distance: 4-5 hours

Day 6: Summit day and Horombo Camp

We wake at midnight and begin our summit trek under the stars, navigating the narrow switchback trail by torchlight. Be prepared for a challenge – the climb to Gilman’s Point is slow-going and the most difficult of the entire journey. From here we continue to the highest point in Africa, Uhuru Peak (5,895m), a three-hour round trip along the crater rim affording views of the crater, ice cliffs, and the plains of East Africa beyond. We will then descend to Kibo for lunch, then commence your trek to your final campsite at Horombo.

Elevation: 5,985m
Trekking distance: 7-9
Descent to Horombo: elevation at 3,720m and another 5-6 hours.

Day 7: National Park, Marangu

On this final day, we continue our descent through alpine meadows to Mandara Hut before making our way through lush forest on a good path to the National Park gate at Marangu.

Feeling inspired?

Ready to trek Mount Kilimanjaro? Find our available departures here

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The world’s friendliest countries

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Travelling is an inspiring, eye-opening and more often than not life-changing experience. If someone told you that travelling hadn’t irrevocably changed them in one way or another, I’d say they weren’t being truthful. There is just something so soulful and life-affirming about travel—it truly makes you understand how small you are in the spectrum of this wonderful planet we call home.

There are so many things that I love about travelling, but perhaps one of my favourite things would be the people I meet along the way. Now, I’m not talking about fellow travellers (although it’s always a great experience meeting them too!) I’m talking about the people who inhabit the wonderful countries I’ve visited.

The graciousness and kindness people offer to someone they’ve never met always astounds me. Of course when travelling you should always keep your wits about and do what feels safe, but if you open your hand and heart to those around you, it will be over-flowing by the time your journey comes to an end.

In this spirit of this, we’ve compiled a list from the research of the World Economic Forum of the friendliest places in the world to travel.

How could people in Iceland not be happy with this view?!

1. Iceland
Despite only getting 3-4 hours of sunlight per day in winter, the people of Iceland always seem to be so happy. Maybe it’s to do with their amazing volcanic scenery and mammoth waterfalls.

2.New Zealand
Australia might not have made the top 10 but our neighbours across the Tasman Sea surely did! Must be all that clear air, rolling hills and roaming sheep that puts our neighbours in a good mood.

3. Morocco
Mostly known for their ah-mazing food, Moroccans come in at number three on the world’s friendliest countries list. There is some history to their friendly ways, however; Morocco was the gateway to North African and a trading hub filled with so many different cultures. So really, their friendly disposition makes a lot of sense just based off that information alone.

4. Macedonia
The beautiful Macedonia comes in at number four. Why wouldn’t you be happy when you live in a city with awe-inspiring mountain views and charming ancient ruins?

5. Austria
Only in recent years has Austria become well known as one of the friendliest places to visit in Europe. With its picture-perfect views of rolling hills and gorgeous glacial lakes, it’s easy to see why.

6. Senegal
In new Africa lies the stunning Senegal, filled with white-sand beaches and dense tropical forests. Smiling and friendliness is just part of the package deal!

7. Portugal
From the gorgeous grottos in Lagos to the quaint homes and cobblestone streets of Lisbon, there isn’t much in Portugal not to love. And, it takes in about 13 million happy travellers each year. Smiles all round in Portugal.

8. Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnians are perhaps some of the nicest people you’ll ever come across in your travels. Another reason to visit the picturesque country is for their east-west fusion, mountain villages and remarkable river rapids.

9. Ireland
Ah, the luck of the Irish (or should it be the friendliness of the Irish?) The Emerald Isle, so-called because of its beautiful green landscapes, is renowned for its friendly locals and lovely hospitality.

10. Burkina Faso
Coming in at number 10 is Burkina Faso in West Africa. They are living proof that you don’t need much to be happy because whilst they are one of the friendliest, they are also one of the poorest countries in the world. Nonetheless, Burkina Faso offers some wonderful wildlife and amazing amber deserts that would put a smile on any local’s face.

Feeling inspired?

Discover other amazing and friendly countries around the world when you take on an Inspired Adventure! Visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar to find a charity challenge perfect for you

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How to choose a travel buddy

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You have scrimped and saved all your money and you have a rough idea of where you want to travel. The easy part is pretty much done. The hard part? You’ve decided against travelling solo, which means you now need to find a travel buddy to accompany you. You shouldn’t underestimate the importance of who you travel with, as the wrong travel companion can really ruin a trip.

Honestly, you can never really know how someone is going to act once you’re on the road, but there are a few tips that can help you figure out the best travel buddy for you.

Agree on a similar budget

Arguably, one of the most important factors to consider is your budget. If one of you wants to live it up and splurge on 5-star hotels while the other can only afford a hostel, you’re already off to a bad start. Find someone who is in a similar financial state to you, or at least someone who is willing to compromise on accommodation.

Not only that, budgeting for daily expenses is equally as important. You might want to spend all your money on new foodie experiences while your companion opts for cheap meals so they have more money for attractions. This part isn’t as important because you can always eat separate meals, however, it is still something you and your potential travel buddy should discuss and agree on.

Have similar travel experiences/wants

Having similar travel experiences and wants are important because you may be an avid adventurer, having climbed Mt Kilimanjaro or trekked into the depths of the Amazon while your buddy has never even left their home country. Before you go, you will need to know each other’s travel experiences and what the other is or isn’t willing to do.

Say you’re both having a great time in New York, but you spontaneously want to catch a flight to Peru and trek the Inca Trail. You will have to know beforehand whether your buddy will be up for this kind of spontaneity because if they aren’t, well, you just missed out on an amazing opportunity.

Find someone who complements you

You don’t have to be best friends or have the exact same personality as your travel buddy. In fact, opposites can be a good thing when travelling. You may be good at planning and organising while your buddy is good with actually booking everything and getting the details correct.

Then again, you don’t want to be too dissimilar because a Type A personality and a Type B personality may not travel so well together. Be realistic. You might want to go with your best friend, but they may not actually be the best choice.

Have good communication skills

If you can’t communicate effectively, you shouldn’t be travelling together. When you’re far away from home in new and unfamiliar places, communicating with each other is everything. Are you nervous about the language barriers? Are you homesick? Do you feel like your buddy is ignoring you or vice versa? Talking about how you’re feeling is so crucial when travelling, so make sure your companion is someone you feel comfortable communicating with and opening up to.

Feeling inspired?

Visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and find a charity challenge perfect for you and a buddy!

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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5 ‘need-to-knows’ for the travelling yogi

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Most yogis have a natural sense of wanderlust, an attitude for adventure and feet that can’t quite stay in the same place for too long. Travel is a way for us to explore our practice through new perspectives and expand on our experiences off the mat.

Whether you have a regular self-practice, or you’re just in need of a stretch between international flights, yoga could be just the thing you need to centre while travelling.

Sitting for long periods of time can pose a serious health risk to your body. Joint pain and decreased blood flow is not the ideal way to start your next holiday. To make sure your body is ready for adventures the moment you get off the plane, practice these simple poses while you’re in the air…

Baby back bend
Come to sit at the edge of your chair. Place your hands directly behind your hips. Inhale as you expand from the chest. Take five deep breaths here with your gaze forward then slowly tilt your head back, pushing your throat forward. Remember to keep your shoulders away from your ears.

Simple spinal twist
Sit upright in your seat. Inhale as you twist to your right, bringing your left hand to your right knee, and your right hand directly behind your right hip. Engage your stomach muscles and, with every exhale, twist further to your right. After eight deep breaths, repeat on your left side.

Bring your mat with you
Make the commitment to your practice before you even get on the plane. By bringing along your yoga mat, you will be much more likely to prioritise your practice. Lay it out on your hotel floor before bed. This will serve as a simple visual reminder that your practice is ready for you when you are. If you travel often, I would suggest investing in a lightweight travel mat.

Be culturally aware
Make sure you are sensitive to the culture of the place you are visiting. Yoga tights and a sports bra may not be the most appropriate attire in your new surroundings. Western yoga practices are very different to Eastern traditions and, as a yogi, it is best to educate yourself so you may respect the practice in each destination you visit.

Best practice, of course, will depend on where you plan to lay out your mat. If you have booked into a private retreat or only plan to practice in the seclusion of a studio or hotel room, you will have more freedom in your attire. If you plan on practicing on any dirt-road that you come across, or in ashrams and religious places you pass, remember to be mindful of your etiquette on the mat.

Find your tribe
The best thing about yoga is that it is a global community. You can hop off a plane and find a community of yogis ready to practice with you. So do a bit of research before you head off, and find your tribe!

Practice letting go
Travelling can really take you out of your comfort zone. From unstable schedules, unfamiliar environments and unexpected turns, travelling does not always give us time and space to practice. If you missed a practice, let it go. If you can only squeeze in a sun salutation, let that be enough. Focus instead on other elements of yoga: mindful breathing, Pranayama or meditation.

Just breathe, be in the moment and enjoy exploring!

About the author…

Kimberly Kay is the Founding Omologist at Omology Yoga. A Sydney-based social enterprise, Omology offers ashtanga yoga classes to the community to fund education projects for women and girls around the world.

Having already worked with One Girl and UNICEF Australia, and with upcoming classes with Project Futures, Kim is dedicated to guiding each individual toward their union to the universal.

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