Adventure starts here.

Climbing

  • Plan A Trip To Climb Mount Everest!

    I bet Everest has always been on your mind. It’s one of those things that many want to accomplish. There is something about challenging the human body and mind that thrills us.

    Why would anybody want to endure the struggle in such brutal conditions and temperatures? Why do they do it?… Why not?

    If you never challenge yourself to do something you’re unsure of, you will always be unsure. As Tony Robins said – “the biggest risk in life is not taking one at all.”

    Located in the Himalayas in Asia, Mt. Everest is the highest mountain in the world, which makes it the ultimate check off on most everyone’s bucket list. Is it feasible? Is it easy?…yes, and no.

    Everest

    You know that saying, “if it was easy, everyone would do it?” That’s why it’s such a big deal to climb Everest — because it’s not easy.

    Since 1977 this mountain claims at least one life per year, so don’t take this climb lightly. If you want to do something, do it, just make sure you have the proper training for it.

    Live the life you want, what ever that may be. If you’re body is telling you to take a risk, listen. This is a life goal for many. If you are serious about this, make sure you are properly trained.

    The worlds highest mountain isn’t going to be an easy climb, but with the proper training and gear, it is doable.

    Picture yourself at 29,029 ft. Now, is it worth it? The negative temperatures, steep climbs, high altitudes, and brutal weather is no joke, but is the view and the satisfaction worth it? If you make a commitment to yourself, you gotta make it happen. You won’t know if you never do it.

    If you’re serious about taking on the biggest baddest mountain in the world, call on Inclusive Excursions to guide you.

     

  • Spring Break Adventure Safety – Have Fun!

    For those who are looking forward to spring break, it’s a time to be free from the confines of the classroom and the face of the computer. Weather your Skiing in the Alps or exploring the beaches, it is always wise to assess the situation before making decisions. Before you adventure away though, it’s always important to keep safety in mind. Spring Break safety is important when setting off on your adventure… get wild, but be smart. Time for an exciting week ahead.

    We ourselves like to be spontaneous with our adventures, but while adventure does often involve risk, make sure your choices are well-planned. Jumping from balcony to balcony on spring break often makes the news.  Unfortunately though, this is usually to note a fatality, and we don’t want that to be you! Even the best of adventurers use safety equipment. Ropes and harnesses are purposeful–to keep you safe and alive. Use them on the slabs, but hold off from those balcony jumps.

    Spring Break

    Looking to dive into unknown waters? That sure will be fun, and what a photo opp!  Please first consider though the underwater dangers that can bite you. Are there rocks or even crocs? Read signs and pay attention.

    Speaking of taking pictures…beware of selfie dangers.  Don’t get too close to the edge of that cliff or the mouth of that snake. Be aware of what’s around. No selfie is worth your life.

    Many sites offer safety information while traveling, but perhaps one of the most important is to maintain the buddy system wherever you go.  Stay accounted for and travel with a buddy. From hotel reservations to outdoor locations, always let a friend or family member know where you are going. Save social media updates for once you’re home…(You’re there to enjoy the moment after all). Keep your cell phones charged and carry a portable charger.

    In terms of hotels, ask for a business card with the hotel address and number.  When traveling abroad where language may be a barrier, you can hand the taxi driver the card with the address.  

    Spring Break

    Emergency services such as 911 are not available in all countries. Plan ahead. Before you travel, research your destination for similar services and store them in your phone.

    Spring Break

    With Spring Break around the corner and fun-filled adventures planned, keep safety a priority, so that you can live to tell the crazy adventure experiences you had. We advise all of our adventure clients to purchase travel insurance. You never think it will happen until it happens. Be prepared.

    Be smart.  Be aware. Be safe.  And most importantly, be adventurous!  Enjoy Spring Break.

  • North Carolina’s U.S. National Whitewater Center

    USNWC

    Dreaming of whitewater rafting, rock climbing or other adventure sport but don’t know where to start?  Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, the USNWC has created an environment where you can safely learn and practice skills in outdoor recreation before actually going into the wilds.  

    USNWC

    Dedicated to promoting an outdoor lifestyle, with 1,300 acres, the US National Whitewater Center has artistically designed the land to meet the needs of a range of enthusiasts.  Along with whitewater rafting, guests may enjoy kayaking, flatwater kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, rock climbing, ropes courses, canopy tours, team building activities and mountain biking.  Mountain bikers have an option of 40+ wooded trails to explore, while other sports are contained to a carefully maintained and organized setting where safety is always a priority.

    USNWC

    The USNWC not only offers a wide range of outdoor sports, but also provides opportunities to learn and practice skills.  Along with techniques, leadership and communication skills are also encouraged and implemented with specialized adventure instruction for all ages and levels.  The Whitewater Race Series held at the USNWC also encourages competition for many sports from mountain biking, kayaking to triathlons.

    USNWC

    A family-oriented environment wouldn’t be complete without relaxation and play.  Outdoor festivals are held throughout the year with music, food and vendors. Also the Whitewater Race Series holds competition for many sports from mountain biking, kayaking to triathlons.

    USNWC

    A great place to learn a new skill or to spend the day, the USNWC is a terrific destination in Charlotte, North Carolina.  As they say on their site, “ the USNWC empowers the guests to play, relax and learn outside.” Highly recommended, this is a must-do experience.  Visit HERE for some inside details of one of the events held last season.

    USNWC

    Photo Credits @USNWC

  • How To Start Rock Climbing For Beginners!

    How To Start Rock Climbing For Beginners…

    If you are wondering how to start rock climbing and “Go Outside And Play,” as Blue Ridge Outdoors would say, then this could be a great starting point for you.

    Rock climbing involves mental and physical fitness, trust in your climbing partners, natural adrenaline, and most importantly FUN! If you love the outdoors and are looking to pick up a new hobby this season, this could be the one for you. Not sure where or how to start? Let us tell you!

    From the early 1900s, rock climbing was seen as a necessity to reach the summit of a mountain. Today though, we see it as a recreational sport…Sport Climbing.

    If you are looking to get into sport climbing, there are a few steps you can take to make sure your journey there is safe and fun.

    How To Start Rock Climbing

    How To Get Started Rock Climbing?
    1. Try an indoor climbing gym to make sure you like it before emptying out your wallet on the equipment.
    2. Make sure when you do buy equipment that it is QUALITY.
    3. Hire an experienced coach or go with an experienced partner.

    How To Start Rock Climbing

    Where Do I Start?

    When taking on a new sport, especially rock climbing, it is important to learn the basics before jumping right into something that could be potentially dangerous. DO YOUR RESEARCH! Make sure you know exactly what you are getting yourself, and whoever you take with you into. Make sure to never climb alone. Climbing buddies are a total essential to this sport.

    If you don’t have any climbing buddies yet, that is A-Okay! With this sport growing at such high volumes, more and more climbing gyms are opening every day. Find one near you to start practicing, and there you can meet your potential climbing buddies.

    How To Start Rock Climbing

    How Do I Know What Equipment To Buy?

    How To Start Rock Climbing

    When you are on the hunt for your climbing gear, you want to make sure what you are buying will last you. You know that old saying, “you get what you pay for”? That basically sums it up. If you are serious about this sport you may want to spend the extra couple of bucks to make sure it will serve you when you most need it. The last thing you want is an equipment failure when you are hanging off the edge of a cliff.

    Support your economy and do your shopping local. You can check out your local outdoor stores and speak with one of the sales reps on the topic of starting your climbing journey. Just ask how to start rock climbing. He or she should be able to point you in the right direction of where to start and what to buy. They may even be able to give you tips and tricks to the local climbing areas.

    How Do I Find A Climbing Buddy?

    This is one of the most critical pieces to your climbing journey. Rule number one: always climb with a buddy. If your friends are more of the TV watcher and less of the adventurous type, try starting your search in your local climbing gym. Here you will find other newbies who are on the same mission as you… (to learn how to climb and find a climbing buddy.) Make new friends, and experience this journey with other people who have the same interest as you.

    How To Start Rock Climbing

    Remember, the best views come after the toughest climbs.

    Your Question of “how to start rock climbing” should go a long way. Keep an open mind and always ask for advice. You will get there!

    Learn more about Adventure Travel HERE!

     

     

     

     

  • Why is adventure travel the new trend?

    Adventure travel has been booming these past few years!  

    According to Russell Walters, regional director for the ATTA, Adventure Travel Trade Association, adventure travel has been steadily growing. In 2009, it was an $89 billion industry, and in 2017, it was a $683 billion industry (Travel Weekly June 2018). People are only beginning to tap into all the unexplored destinations. What’s stopping you?

     Adventure travel is a specialty and a niche market. With adventure taking over the market, many travel agents are hopping on the train. This is a red flag because the agent might not specialize in Adventure Travel, but still try to sell it. Not every travel agent can go out and say they are an Adventure Travel Expert. Sure, they might get you there, and they might send you on an adventure, but it most likely isn’t going to be the adventure that you would want. It’s like a plumber saying he can pave your driveway. Maybe he can do it, but will it be the best driveway you’ve ever seen? Probably not. This is why you want to use an adventure specialist or expert to send you on the adventure every enthusiast is chasing after.

    A good adventure expert knows all the ins and outs all over the world. Rather than trying to find the guides yourself or using a basic travel site, it makes it easier for the consumer. When booking your trip, it’s important that your agent gets to know your hobbies, skill set, and destination. A good agent will customize and tailor your trip to suit your individual style.

     

     What do you enjoy doing? Do you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, hiking, camping, climbing, whitewater rafting/kayaking, or a combination? Whatever your idea of adventure may be, you should consult with an Adventure Agent to see what destination is right for you. If you are a client looking to learn, or if you are an experienced client who has climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro or even Everest, odds are an adventure expert can still supply you with a new way to find that adrenaline pumping thrill that the adventure traveler seeks.

    Adventure is limited only to the individual. The most important consideration is how YOU describe adventure. Adventure Travel may be a cultural exchange, interaction with nature, physical activity, risk or thrill. Whether it’s off-roading through the desert in Utah, splashing down rivers in Patagonia, Mountain biking in Peru, taking a cruise through Alaska, taking a safari ride through South Africa, or everything in between; Adventure Travel is in. People like to have fun, and this is the most exhilarating way to do so. Experience the new way of travel.