Thrill-seekers crave the rush of adrenaline and the risk and danger that new experiences can provide. If that sounds like you, you’re in luck, as opportunities to explore your passion are abundant all throughout the world. In fact, this is a global phenomenon, with statistics suggesting 42% of all tourists participate in at least one adventure activity while on vacation. This trend is expected to steadily increase for at least the next three years. The industry is growing so it’s a perfect time to go on your first adventure if you’ve been on the fence about it in the past.
Such a variety of options is available that you’re bound to find something you’ll like. Want to try the world’s highest bungee jump? Cage dive with great white sharks? Hike and maneuver through an austere, unforgiving environment? How about whale shark diving in the Philippines, or skiing in the Swiss Alps, or canyoneering in the Grand Canyon? If that sounds like fun to you, read on, and we’ll take a look at these options as well as some budget-friendly alternatives.
WHALE SHARK DIVING IN THE PHILIPPINESWhale sharks are the largest fish in the world, growing up to 41.5 feet long (that’s as long as a school bus!) and over 21 tons. Fortunately for humans, they’re also incredibly docile creatures despite their size, and pose no danger to us. This makes them perfect candidates for interaction by recreational diving and snorkeling. To be clear, this means you can freely dive and snorkel with them, but touching and flash photography are not allowed. Also, this means resisting the urge to get too close. These gentle giants need their space, and touching them can strip off their delicate mucous membrane which is vital for protection against parasites and disease. The town of Donsol on the Philippine island of Luzon hosts some of the most spectacular whale-watching in the world. The best part? It’s ethical. The Donsol whale shark ecotourism program serves to protect the large number of whale sharks in the Donsol area from unethical ecotourism practices. Whale sharks here are studied and monitored by locals and volunteers alike to ensure that the population remains healthy. The program has paid off, with population numbers rising. All these factors make Donsol Bay one of the best places in the world to dive with these amazing creatures, and should be the first spot on your list if you’re looking for such an experience.SKIING IN THE SWISS ALPSGetting the opportunity to ski in the Swiss Alps may literally be a dream for some, but it’s certainly a realistic, albeit expensive option for thrill-seekers. Skiing in the Swiss Alps is an experience unlike any other. Snow-covered mountains rising thousands of feet into the sky are starkly outlined against the shining sun and bright blue sky. Visibility is nearly endless with natural beauty all around. Once you’re done with a day’s skiing, you can relax at your lodge or inn with a steaming hot beverage and Switzerland’s famously delicious chocolate. Interested? Research the resort that fits your needs best, as all have their nuances. Some are cheaper than others, at the expense of decreased quality of lodging or ski slopes. Others are more expensive, but may not provide the best value for the money. It’s important to define what’s necessary for you with this type of resort, and narrow your search from there. Looking for a budget alternative? Colorado boasts some of the best ski slopes in the United States while having significantly cheaper lodging and resorts than those you can find in Switzerland. If you’re arriving from abroad, don’t sweat it, as it’ll still be substantially cheaper than an alpine trip to Switzerland.CANYONEERING IN THE GRAND CANYONThe Grand Canyon is one of, if not the most famous natural sites in the United States and certainly one of the most beautiful. You’ve probably heard of hiking, camping, and rock climbing in certain sections of the park, but have you ever heard of canyoneering? It’s an interdisciplinary activity which combines elements of mountaineering and rock-climbing while still being distinct from both. Despite these two disciplines, it also entails hiking, swimming, scrambling, and rappelling, making canyoneering a truly intense activity that’s perfect for adventurel-seekers. The Grand Canyon is an excellent place for canyoneering. With its network of gorges, sheer cliffs, and rugged terrain with the mighty Colorado River flowing through, there is canyoneering to do in many parts of the park. In fact, 105 different canyoneering routes were compiled and cataloged in a guide book by Todd Martin in 2011, many of which require swimming or wading and still more which normally take more than a day to complete. In short, visit the Grand Canyon if you’re looking for a unique adrenaline-filled experience in one of the most beautiful natural sites in the 50 states.HONORABLE MENTIONSNot satisfied with these suggestions? There are endless options, but here are just a few. If you love the water, try to source an ethical shark cage diving experience from a reputable business. South Africa is a good place to go if that interests you. Not afraid of heights? You can go bungee jumping off the Macau Tower in China; the highest bungee jump in the world. Lastly, consider a journey to Costa Rica, where zip-lining over the canopy of lush rainforests is available. We hope we’ve armed you with some of the knowledge you need to start planning your next thrill-seeking adventure. No matter which you choose, get out there and get that adrenaline flowing! |
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