If you are the type of person who not only appreciates the outdoors, but likes to get out there and see nature in action first hand by taking a hike or even a walk, then you may find that the right hiking staffs can help you enjoy your expeditions much more. A walking stick can be a trusted companion not only for those seeking some solitude when hiking, but a reliable walking friend for those who have company as well. Down through history people have utilized staffs made from many different materials to assist them in traveling over land so it is not surprising that the majority of hikers and...

Before we get into the whys and wherefores of waiing we need to understand the meaning of the word “farang”. In this and other diatribes with which I hope to inform and amuse you about the delights of Thailand, you will come across farang frequently. If you’re Caucasian and not Oriental, then, in Thailand you’re farang. Thais, as with other natives in this part of the world, juxtapose the l and r when speaking, so farang becomes falang, lobster becomes robster and they have an awful problem saying library! Its derivative is the Thai word for the French; farangset, and goes all the way back to...

The port city of Oporto or Porto, is better known for its fortified wines than its historic port, which marks the end of the 560-mile-long Duoro River. The surrounding Douro Valley not only makes for a perfect vineyard, but the hills are one of the best places in Portugal for hiking.rrIf you are planning a trip hiking in Portugal’s Douro Valley, then your first stop is likely to be the northern capital of Oporto. The city is an enigma, in that it is both heavily industrialised and yet in other parts sleepy and steeped in history. The historic buildings, such as the cathedral, Romanesque Church...

There is so much to understand when it comes to finding the best sleep system whilst on a backpacking adventure. By understanding a few simple facts you will be able to have a great night’s sleep and fully prepared for the next day ahead. Backpacking is great fun and if you are planning on a trip that requires camping out then you will need to understand which is the best sleep system for you. Even for the most experienced backpacker there are so many options available to choose from that could potentially confuse. There are quite a few factors that determine how to choose your sleep system such as...

If you are in the mood for a hiking vacation then you will probably want to consider the many trails in either the Great Smoky Mountain National Park in Tennessee or Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. Of course there are many other parks and trails throughout the United States but these two destinations offer some of the most scenic and majestic mountain vistas available. Both the Smoky Mountain National Park and Rocky Mountain National park offer different levels of trails for your hiking vacation. Whether you are taking the family for a casual vacation or are looking for more adventure and...

If you’re familiar with budget travel, you’ve probably heard of backpacking. It is a popular method of international travel that involves traveling with whatever items you can fit into a backpack. Backpackers stay in hostels versus hotels and oftentimes shop in grocery stores and prepare their own food versus eating out in restaurants. Backpacking is popular with young people who want to see the world but can’t spend lot of money doing it. The Advantages of Backpacking The obvious perk of backpacking is that it is cheap. Backpackers travel using the cheapest modes of transportation...

By having the correct backpacking gear you will be assured that it will be an enjoyable and pleasurable trip. It really can really make or break your adventure so follow these great tips to make sure you use the correct gear and have a fantastic time. Buy gloves those are thick enough to protect and insulate from the cold and heat, but have good grip too. When you turn in to sleep for the night make sure you wear a hat when sleeping in the cold. It is a highly effective way to get extra warmth as so much heat is lost through the head. You will be helping essential heat to not leave your body. Also, if...

n So you just want to go for a short hike in the woods and really do not expect to be gone long at all. Well unless you only go about 100 yards from your car or house or whatever your home base happens to be, you should consider these 3 tips as important for your hiking survival. The proper outdoor clothing is a must. Do not just start out walking in shorts and a shirt. Be sure the clothes you wear when you hike are of course comfortable but will protect you from the elements. Proper footwear is of utmost importance. If you are a regular hiker then you are well aware of this. If you are a novice, then...

With the world cup being held in South Africa for 2010 the country will be given a great opportunity to showcase not only its natural beauty but also its great hospitality. Apart from an expensive airline ticket over to South Africa, depending on your country of origin, your stay should be reasonably cheap. If you are looking to make your money go the extra mile you could consider backpacking your way through the beautiful country. Backpacking accommodation hostels have been setup all over south Africa, if there is an area that has something to offer in terms of natural beauty to man-made attractions...

If this is your very first adventure into the unknown world of backpacking, get excited. You will shortly embark on one of the best experiences of your life. Great authors like Thoreau and Emerson advocated the simple an natural existence that backpacking provides, but why? What is it about this activity that influenced them so strongly? Let’s explore a few of the reasons people love backpacking so much. It offers a unique view of nature. Ultimately when you are backpacking, it shows you see how indifferent nature is to your presence. Whatever you do, you cannot change the weather, or the...