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Adventure Travel

2012 Travel Adventures in Photos

2012 was an epic year for travel adventures. 14 countries and over 10,000 photos. Makes it hard to choose just 12 of our favourites but we have tried!

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Costa Brava Church, Cycling in Costa Brava

2012. What a year it has been.

It’s hard to imagine that the year is nearly over because it feels like only yesterday that we were in Egypts capital city, Cairo, ringing in the New Year.

But since then it has been a whirlwind of travel adventures for us.

2012 Travel Adventures in Photos

This is actually the first time that we have looked back on all the travel adventures we have done this year. We are so fortunate to have been to 14 countries this year. 

So grab a coffee, sit back and take a moment to reflect back on the last 12 months of travel.

January 2012 – Egypt

Egypt Pyramids of Giza, travel adventures,

Pyramids of Giza, Cairo, Egypt.

Egypt was the perfect start to the year. It had been a dream of mine to visit the Pyramids of Giza for a longtime and I had huge fears that they wouldn’t live up to my exaggerated expectations. Luckily the Pyramids, and Egypt in general blew my mind.

A truly magnificent country.

February 2012 – Amsterdam

Amsterdam at Night, Red Light District

Red Light District Canals, Amsterdam

We wrote a few risqué posts from our 48 hours in Amsterdam. No surprises that our “How to smoke weed in Amsterdam” and “Visiting a Peep Show” posts continue to drive thousands of visitors to our travel blog each month.

What amazed me the most about Amsterdam was the high number (pun intended) of  Tourists that miss out on the highlights of Amsterdam such as the Anne Frank Museum. I guess they are too busy eating waffles, smoking weed and visiting the Red Light District,

March 2012 – 3 Valleys, France

3 Valleys Peak Panorama, Travel Adventures

3 Valleys Panorama, France

We hadn’t skied in over a year when we made the decision to go skiing in the 3 Valleys. The snowcapped French Alps were endless and we quickly fell in love with the area.

It’s also why we are moving there for this winter season. So you can expect lots more picturesque panoramas to come 🙂

April 2012 – Scottish Highlands

Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland, Travel Adventures

Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

We are so glad that we made the decision to live in Edinburgh rather than London. Scotland continues to grow on us every day with its stunning Scottish Highlands and Castles around every corner.

We did countless drives around Scotland, but the one that stands out the most was our trip to the Isle of Skye. A vast, windswept and rugged Isle that left us wanting more.

If only the weather was a little better.

May 2012 – Turkey

Sail Turkey Busabout Sunset Cruise, Adventure travel

Sail Turkey with Busabout, Turkey

After shivering in Scotland for the winter we knew we had to escape to somewhere warm. Turkey proved to be one of the best decisions in the last 3 years.

We originally planned to just visit Istanbul and attend the incredibly moving ANZAC ceremony in Gallipoli. As an afterthought we tacked on a Sail Turkey cruise with Busabout. In one week lifelong friendships were forged and it has been one of the best travel adventures we have done.

June 2012 – Italy

Colisseum Pictures, Rome Pictures, Colosseum Panorama, Colosseum Pictures

Roman Colosseum, Rome, Italy

I get shivers looking at the Colosseum. While others may not agree with me I think it is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.

But Rome wasn’t the only highlight in Italy. For 4 weeks we toured the northern half. We hiked Cinque Terre, explored Tuscany by scooter, ate copious amounts of Pizza and Pasta, sea kayaked in Naples, visited Ferrari museums and celebrated La Notte Rosa in Rimini.

We could travel around Italy forever.

July 2012 – Running with the Bulls, Spain

Running with the Bulls, San Fermin Bull Fighting Pamplona, travel adventures

San Fermin Bull Fight, Pamplona, Spain

With the blood pumping in our ears and the vibrations of hooves on the cobbles we ran for our lives during the San Fermin Running with the Bulls festival in Pamplona. Never in my life have I been more terrified, excited and pumped up on adrenaline than for those 2 minutes.

The bullfighting wasn’t the only travel adventure we got involved in though. Surfing in San Sebastian for 2 weeks helped me rediscover that passion that I had forgotten while we have been travelling.

August 2012 – Budapest, Hungary

Széchenyi Baths Budapest, travel adventures

Széchenyi Baths, Budapest, Hungary

Budapest turned out to be a real eye opener for us. We hadn’t yet ventured into Eastern Europe on our travels but it had always been in the backs of our minds. It’s funny how one little trip changes everything because now we want to bike around Eastern Europe next summer.

Not only did we get to relax in the local Széchenyi Baths, but we also attended the Sziget Music festival and Adela faced her fears by going caving under Budapest.

September 2012 – Costa Brava, Spain

Ermita de Sant Elm Church, Costa Brava, Spain, Travel Adventures

Ermita de Sant Elm Church, Costa Brava, Spain

This photos sums up Costa Brava for me. Gorgeous. On my second (out of three) trips to Spain this year I had the opportunity to explore the northeast of Spain in depth like a local.

Costa Brava has all sorts of travel adventures from hot air ballooning, remote Castle villages like Besalu and cycling old rail trails. It really is the perfect place to visit.

October 2012 – Oslo, Norway

Oslo Guide Vigeland Park, Crazy Baby Statue Oslo

Vigeland Park, Oslo, Norway

Living in the UK has been great but unfortunately I could only obtain a two year visa. Before I got booted out of the country for good we did a quick visa run across the North Sea to Oslo.

In hindsight we could have chosen somewhere cheaper (Oslo is the worlds most expensive city) but it turns out that Oslo in Autumn is spectacular. The fall colours and crazy baby statues make it a really fun city to explore.

We are also planning on returning to Norway in summer because we have heard they have some of the best adventure activities in the world.

November 2012 – Whangamata, New Zealand

Clark Island, Whangamata Beach, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

Clark Island, Whangamata, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

For the first time in over 3 years I nearly quit travelling when I returned home to New Zealand. See the problem with travelling is that you miss out on so much back home. Especially when your home is one of the most talked about countries in the world.

Being able to go diving or surfing in Whangamata and relax on the beach afterwards with views like this are what I miss the most. After family of course. This is what will pull me home sooner than I thought…

December 2012 – Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

Wentworth Falls Valley Hiking Trail Bridge, adventure travels

Wentworth Valley, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

And to top off our travel adventures for the year, another photo from New Zealand. This one was taken on the hike up to Wentworth Falls. I don’t think it needs much explanation as to why it joins the 2012 adventure travels list. Who wouldn’t want to hike here!

Lets hope that 2013 brings just as many, if not more, travel adventures as 2012 did.

Tell us your favourite travel memory from 2012 below.

Cole is one half of New Zealand's leading adventure travel blogging couple who have been wearing out their jandals around the world since 2009. He loves any adventure activities and anything to do with the water whether it is Surfing, Diving, Swimming, Snorkeling or just lounging nearby on the beach. You can follow Cole on Google+. Or consider following us via RSS Feed, Twitter, Facebook and subscribe to our Newsletter.

Adventure Travel

A Beginner’s Guide to Yacht Charters: How to Choose the Right Yacht and Plan the Perfect Trip

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handsome young man enjoying time boat scaled

Yacht charters offer a unique and luxurious way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations. Whether you’re looking to spend a week exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, or you want to take a romantic trip to the Mediterranean, a yacht charter is an excellent option. Phuket is an excellent location to charter a yacht and is one of the most popular destinations for yacht charters in the world.

However, choosing the right yacht and planning the perfect trip can be a daunting task for those who are new to yacht charters. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your yacht charter experience a success.

Consider the Size of the Yacht Needed

Yachts come in a variety of sizes, from small sailing boats to large motor yachts. Consider how many people will be traveling with you, and how much space you’ll need for your trip. You’ll also want to think about the type of activities you want to do on your trip. If you’re looking for a more adventurous trip, a smaller sailing yacht may be the way to go. But if you’re looking for a more luxurious and spacious experience, a larger motor yacht may be a better choice.

  • Small Sailing Yachts: These are typically 30-50 feet in length and are ideal for more intimate and adventurous trips.
  • Mid-Size Motor Yachts: These yachts are typically 50-80 feet in length and offer more space and amenities than small sailing yachts.
  • Large Motor Yachts: These yachts are typically 80 feet or longer and offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort.
  • Superyachts: These are the largest yachts, typically over 100 feet in length, and are often custom built to the highest standards.

Consider a Place to Discover

Yacht charters are available all over the world, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, so choose a location that appeals to you and your travel companions. Research the destinations you’re interested in, and find out what the weather will be like during your trip. You’ll also want to consider the time of year that you’re traveling, as some destinations may be more expensive during peak season.

Here are some popular yacht destinations:

Mediterranean: The Mediterranean region is a top destination for yacht charters, with its turquoise waters, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Some popular destinations include the French Riviera, the Amalfi Coast in Italy, and the Greek islands.

Caribbean: The Caribbean is a popular yacht charter destination for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. Some popular islands include the British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, and Antigua.

Bahamas: The Bahamas are another popular yacht charter destination, known for its stunning crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and tropical landscapes.

Maldives: The Maldives is a group of 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant sea life.

Thailand: Thailand is known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, vibrant local culture, and rich history. Some popular destinations for yacht charters in Thailand include the Andaman Sea, Phuket, and Koh Samui

beautiful beach view koh chang island tour boat tourists seascape 1

beautiful beach view Koh Chang island and Tour boat for tourists seascape at Trad province Eastern of Thailand on blue sky background , Sea island of Thailand landscape

Plan Ahead

When it comes to planning the perfect trip, timing is everything. Booking your yacht charter early is key to ensuring that you get the yacht and destination that you want. Don’t wait until the last minute to book, as yachts can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It’s also a good idea to book well in advance if you’re traveling during the holidays, as yachts tend to be in high demand during these times.

Yacht Charter Cost

Another important factor to consider when planning your yacht charter is the cost. Yacht charters can be expensive, so you’ll want to budget for your trip carefully. Consider the cost of the yacht, fuel, food, and other expenses. Some yacht charters may include some or all of these expenses, so be sure to ask about what’s included when you’re booking. You may also want to look for yacht charter deals or discounts to help save money on your trip.

Think About the Crew

Finally, you’ll want to consider the crew. Yacht charters typically come with a crew that includes a captain, chef, and other members. Consider the size of the crew, and make sure that they have the experience and skills you need for your trip. You’ll also want to make sure that the crew is friendly and professional, and that they can accommodate any special requests or needs you may have.

Final Thoughts

A yacht charter is an excellent way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations in style and comfort. With a little bit of planning and research, you can choose the right yacht and plan the perfect trip for you and your travel companions. So start exploring your options today, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

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Adventure Travel

Medieval Towns with German Castles Near Munich & Frankfurt

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Heidelberg Castle

Our favorite castles in Germany near Frankfurt and Munich:

Neuschwanstein Castle is there somewhere amongst all the fog!

Neuschwanstein Castle is there somewhere amongst all the fog!

We were crazy enough to visit Neuschwanstein Castle on a public holiday. This meant that along with all the Asian tourists, there were an awful lot of Germans. Plus, even though we arrived by 11 am, the soonest tickets we could buy were for the German tour at 2.30 pm, as the terms in English were sold out until 4 pm. So, if you don’t have German friends at hand to translate the tour for you, we recommend booking in advance online. The castle was impressive, and the time was undoubtedly fascinating! Don’t worry, I won’t spill the beans, but the manmade Grotto room made my jaw drop!

Mespelbrunn Castle

Mespelbrunn Castle

Mespelbrunn Castle is located on a pond between Frankfurt and Wurzburg. Unfortunately, we arrived 30 minutes after its closing time of 5 pm, but it looked cool from behind the fence!

Lichtenstein Castle

Lichtenstein Castle

Lichtenstein Castle is located on a clifftop near Stuttgart and costs 6 euros per person for a tour in German; however, they did give us a very informative written guide in English. This castle is small compared to Hohenzollern castle, but its story is fascinating. Tanks shelled it in World War II, and today you can still see the cracked mirror from where a small fragment of a tank grenade ricocheted!

Hohenzollern Castle

Hohenzollern Castle

Hohenzollern Castle is not too far from Lichtenstein Castle. It is located on a hilltop near Hechingen, and we enjoyed the guided tour. Along with getting to wear GIANT slippers, make sure you explore the casemates and secret passages. One sign made me want to learn more. It read, “Exactly where these steps lead to is unknown. More casemates and secret passageways are likely waiting to be discovered in the heart of the mountain”!

Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle was a lot larger than we expected! Unfortunately, we had spent far too much time at the Auto & Technik Museum in Sinsheim, so we did not have time to explore this castle. But if we get the chance, we will explore the town and its castle next time in Germany.

On our drive from Munich to Frankfurt, we also loved:

Andechs Monastery

Andechs Monastery

The beer garden at Andechs Monastery was just like Oktoberfest but amongst trees and more family-friendly. The beer was cheaper, and the food was great, including the giant pork knuckle, which Moss could not finish. It was also fun walking up multiple flights of stairs to the tower’s very top.

River surfing in Munich

River surfing in Munich

Rothenburg

Rothenburg

Three hours in Rothenburg was not enough to explore this wonderful medieval town! We recommend getting your hands on a city map from the tourist information office. We enjoyed Roder Gate, walking along the wall and exploring the 17th-century spital bastion, plus Moss lost me in the Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas shop for over half an hour, and I didn’t even buy anything!

Bamberg

Bamberg was a neat town with old buildings in the center of the river and had a famous smoked beer which Moss just had to try!

Auto Technik Museum in Sinsheim

I’m not the hugest car or plane fanatic, but even I enjoyed the Auto & Technik Museum in Sinsheim. A highlight for me was sliding out of an airplane (from the museum’s roof)!

The worlds narrowest street

Don’t go out of your way to see it, but the world’s narrowest street in Reutlingen is worth a photo if you are passing through.

Frau Rauscher spitting statue Frankfurt

In Frankfurt, go to the old part of town for an apfelwein and see the Frau Rauscher statue – watch out, she spits about every 12 seconds!

The average person would Google Munich to Frankfurt and see that it only takes about 3 ½ hours depending on how fast you wish to drive on the autobahn! However, we are NOT typical. We took one look at train prices and decided that hiring a car wouldn’t cost too much more.

Suppose you’re interested in traveling to Germany for a damn good deal. In that case, plenty of tour companies have some pretty unique and affordable vacation packages to Berlin, Munich, and Bavaria.

It may be small but this building on Trappensee Lake is classed as a castle!

It may be small, but this building on Trappensee Lake is classed as a water castle!

We aren’t going to tell you our exact route. Still, after surviving Oktoberfest in Munich, we did a giant zigzag to see as many castles and medieval towns as possible. So to save you doing so much driving, we have picked our favorite cities and castles. First of all, ‘Ausfahrt’ is not a destination accessible from every off-ramp! It means ‘Exit’! Another word of wisdom to keep in mind is that the autobahns with speed limits do have speed cameras… and the flash is blinding!

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Adventure Travel

Running with the Bulls Video

Our shaky Running with the Bulls Video footage from the Festival de San Fermin in 2012. Experience it first hand in Pamplona. Enjoy.

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San Fermin Running with the Bulls still

We recently wrote about our life or death experience of Running with the Bulls this year at the Festival of San Fermin in Pamplona. On that run, I carried along with our GoPro video camera and tried to shoot some footage for our running with the video of the bull.

Running with the Bulls Video, Pamplona

Running with the Bulls

All our travel video shooting techniques went out the window when the bulls’ hooves started to shake the ground beneath our feet.

Once we had lined up for the running with the bulls, there was no escape from it as we were walled in by apartment blocks, shopfront windows, and 3-meter high wooden barriers packed with photographers along the entire length. At one end lay the relative safety of the bull ring pulsating with the cheers of the crowd who were still partying from the night before. Behind me, a dozen wild bulls pawed the stony ground looking for freedom.

Unfortunately, I was standing in their path. 

What we ended up with is below. However, I think what we filmed for our running with the bull video captures the chaos, craziness, and complete madness a lot better than if I had stood my ground.

Enjoy it and watch for the guy that nearly gets trampled to death near the beginning!

Running with the Bulls Video

Would you ever consider running with the bulls?

While we are very aware that not all people agree that the San Fermin Festival should be allowed to go ahead mainly due to animal cruelty, we think there are two sides to every story. We wrote a post about the controversy surrounding Bullfighting in Spain and the Festival de San Fermin.

We would love to hear your thoughts on the Festival de San Fermin and whether you would ever consider running with the bulls.

If you want to join the next Festival of San Fermin or any other wild festivals in Europe, such as Sail Turkey, book with our partners Busabout.

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Meet Cole and Adela

Cole and AdelaWe have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...

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