An Appetite for Adventure: Thrill-Seeking Experiences
June 5, 2024 by Hidden Doorways
When looking for the definition of adventure, we come across words like ‘unusual,’ ‘exciting,’ and ‘daring.’ But an adventure is so much more. It offers opportunities to hone personal courage, enrich the soul, and foster growth. From kayaking calm waters in search of turtles and discovering historic monuments to hiking volcanoes and exploring rainforests, we’ve searched the globe to find something to satiate every appetite.
Paradise Found in Hawaii
Known for its beautiful beaches and as the surf capital of the world, Hawaii’s coastlines are ripe for adventure. For those seeking serious swells, Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of O’ahu is home to a premier surf school where enthusiasts can learn from the island’s best surfers at the Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience. This professional team knows the breaks intimately, curating each surf and stand-up paddle experience to the person’s age and skill level. For something more serene, kayaking the calm waters of Kawela Bay in search of the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle might be more enticing. Guides share tales of the beaches walked by Hawaiian royalty as explorers paddle in hope of a sighting. For night owls, a snorkeling exploration after sundown offers a chance to explore the nocturnal marine ecosystem that comes to life while the world sleeps. Alternatively, enjoy the shoreline from land by horseback, discovering the North Shore the way the paniolos (cowboys) did through lush trails, ending on the beach just in time for sundowners with a spectacular view.
Soul Revival in the Dominican Republic
On the island of Hispaniola lies the Dominican Republic, famed for its beautiful beaches but offering much more. On the north side of the island is the luxurious Playa Grande Beach Club, benefiting from a wilder, more untouched backdrop than the resort hubs on the south. Thanks to its location, adventure abounds — from horseback riding, a monkey jungle and zip-line experience, to fishing trips, surf lessons, and seasonal humpback whale watching by sea.
Zip into Wild Forests in Cambodia
Rich in history and nature, Cambodia has much to discover, and the luxury tented camp of Shinta Mani Wild is an ideal base for adventures through 800 acres of upland forest and rushing rivers. The spirit of the wild is the lifeblood of the destination. The clue is in the name, and that adventurous ethos is embodied from the jump in a truly unique arrival to the camp. Guests zipline over 1200 meters of forest canopy, river and waterfalls to the appropriately named Landing Zone Bar, where your personal Bensley Butler and the GM await your arrival with a refreshing cocktail. From birdwatching, foraging, and searching for butterfly species to hiking, kayaking, and waterfall picnics, activities are plentiful. Each private tent offers luxurious amenities and breathtaking views, the perfect backdrop to unwind after a day of exploration.
Into the Blue of Los Cabos
On the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula sits Los Cabos, known for its beaches and abundance of water-based activities. Here, the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal offers adventures of all shapes and sizes. Beyond the well-known activities like surfing, paddle boarding, and swimming with dolphins, there’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with whale sharks — one of the world’s largest fish at 40 feet long. Completely harmless to humans thanks to their plankton-based diet, enthusiasts can set sail on a panga boat in search of this spectacular species and return to the hotel post-swim with stories aplenty to share over a margarita or two.
Wild Wandering in the Galapagos
Situated on Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands, Pikaia Lodge is an eco-friendly residence as luxurious as it is adventurous. A mix of activities on land and water can be enjoyed in abundance. Surrounded by three major marine currents, it’s one of the best places to scuba dive in the world. The diverse terrain also lends itself perfectly to exhilarating hikes and mountain biking trails.
Lost in the City in New Delhi
As the capital of India, New Delhi is a must-visit destination. A city filled with vibrant life and rich culture, travelers are guaranteed an exhilarating time. Whether navigating historic monuments, bustling markets, and culinary delights of the labyrinthine streets of Purani Dilli or heading out for an evening to explore the vibrant nightlife and modern marvels of this dynamic city, the Leela Palace New Delhi will welcome guests back to a sanctuary where batteries can be fully recharged for another adventure the next day.
Nature’s Finest in Costa Rica
Known worldwide for its deep respect for the environment and incredible biodiversity, Costa Rica is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. Costa Rican Trails, a bespoke travel company with over 25 years of experience, has curated a menu of adventure trails to do just that. Each one of these trails can be tailored to the client — whether they’d like to go zip-lining, explore one of the country’s famed national parks, hike to a volcano, set off for some river rafting, and much more.
Tailor Made Memories in Chile
Inspire clients to explore one of South America’s finest gems — rich in culture and truly unique landscapes. The VM Elite team is ready to help travelers revel in tailor-made experiences. From taking advantage of the clear night skies for astronomy, exploring the finest vineyards, embarking on an archaeological expedition, taking in the view from a hot air balloon, and more — travelers will be truly spoiled for choice with something to suit every kind of adventurer.
American Dreams in Wyoming
One of the best ways to experience a flavor of the American dream is on a ranch. Rated one of the top resorts in the USA, Brush Creek Ranch is situated within an impressive 30,000 acres of Wyoming’s frontier state. Of course, there are many activities to enjoy on horseback, but the diversity of the plot offers much more. From float fishing to rock climbing and a multitude of adventures for children, it’s a great place to encourage an appetite for adventure from an early age.
