There are vacations, and then there are adventures. If you’re the type who looks for some excitement in your time off we have seven quick suggestions that should get your adrenaline pumping.
A joint operation run by the governments of Jammu and Kashmir, the Gulmarg Gondola takes skiers up to enjoy the pristine slopes of the Himalayan region. But you don’t have to be a skier to enjoy the ride – the gondola cars carry you up the first stage of 2,600 metres to the Kongdoori Station, with the second stage taking you up to 3,747 metres, all of it giving you staggering displays of the mountains, likely landing you in the middle of the many festivals and celebrations held throughout the year.
More and more people are getting in on the fun of kayaking and white water rafting. If you’ve enjoyed these activities already and you’re looking to up your game it might be time to set your eyes on the Grand Canyon. You get all of the adrenaline rush of rafting the wild waters, plus you’re surrounded by one of the great natural landmarks of the world.
Everyone knows about Niagara Falls, but what do you want to do if you’re looking for bigger and better? Victoria Falls are bigger than those found at Niagara, and not hemmed in by a lot of touristy claptrap. There’s plenty to do (besides take in the powerful beauty of the Falls themselves) – you can go zip lining, rafting, or even go on a safari riding on the back of an elephant.
Feeling the need for speed? And loops? And stomach-lurching drops? Check out the Formula Rossa rollercoaster in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Boasting a Ferrari theme, the coaster reaches breath-taking speeds of up to 240 km/hour (150 miles/hour).
Even the vacation destinations in Australia are trying to kill you. If you feel like taking a swim surrounded by crocodiles that are over 5 metres long (and who doesn’t?) then check out the Cage of Death located at Crocosaurus Cove, Australia. It’s exactly what it sounds like – you enter a cage in the water, sharing space with a large number of eating-machine reptiles.
Rio de Janeiro if Brazil is a sprawling, amazing city layered around Sugarloaf Mountain and snuggled up against Guanabara Bay. An amazing display in and of itself, Rio only gets more spectacular as you take to the air for an eagle-eyed view from above. You’ll be able to take in the carnivals, the astonishing sprawl of the shanty-towns, and you’ll pass by the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer who keeps watch over the city.
If you’re looking for a way to earn some real bragging rights, book an Antarctic cruise that offers you the option of taking a ski trek across part of the island of South Georgia. You and a small number of other passengers will be dropped off with a couple of guides, your skis, your supplies (pulled in a sled behind you)… and that’s it. It’s up to you to make your way across the island, camping out in the snowy wastelands, to meet up with your cruise ship at your pick-up point.
We mentioned zip-lining above, but the Gravity Canyon Flying Fox line in Taihape, New Zealand takes it to the next level. Extending almost a full kilometre (about half a mile), line-riders reach speeds of up to about 160 km per hour (100 miles per hour), soaring 175 metres (575 feet) above t
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Nitin Khanna says:
Wow! It’s blow my mind. All the places are different and amazing. These places are going to updated my bucket list.
Thanks for Sharing!