Author: Kraig Becker

For many people, the perfect vacation involves flying to a tropical destination and sitting on the beach while sipping a fruity drink for a few days. But for an increasing number of travelers the completely relaxing vacation is no longer enough. More and more people are looking for an experience that is both active and meaningful–and more in tune with their healthy lifestyle. For them, there are now some incredible fitness-oriented trips that offer once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to visit amazing places and take part in some unbelievable activities. Here are five such trips that you’ll want to put on your bucket list.

A Yoga Retreat (India)

Yoga is one of the most popular forms of exercise and fitness around the globe, as it not only provides a good workout but also helps build strength, balance, and flexibility. If you want to expand your commitment and understanding of the deeper principles of yoga, why not do so in India, the country where it originated? There are many yoga retreats in various places across the country, but perhaps the best is the Vana Malsi Estate, located in foothills of the Himalayas. There you’ll be able to take part in daily yoga workouts, access a full-service spa, and be introduced to holistic healing methods. In short, it is an escape for both the mind and body.

Cycle Through Burgundy (France)

Everyone knows that France is mad for cycling, so what better way to explore its idyllic countryside than on the back of a bike? Cycling tours have become incredibly popular in recent years, but few can match up with a visit to that country’s Burgundy region, which is famous for its fine wines, rolling hills, and quaint villages. Spend a week riding on narrow country roads, stopping at storybook inns, and enjoying the local cuisine, and you’ll discover that your bike is not only a good way to get in shape, but it is perfect for exploring the world too.

Mountain Bike The Andes (Peru)

Is there a better place to learn to ride a mountain bike than Peru? You’ll master the finer points of the sport while riding from the snowcapped peaks of the Andes Mountains to the spectacular Amazon rain forest. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient Inca ruins (including the mountain fortress of Machu Picchu), while trained and experienced guides show you how to properly climb and descend hills, navigate a trail, and deftly maneuver a mountain bike. This is a truly active adventure that will expose you to Peruvian culture and history while surrounded by some of the world’s most amazing landscapes.

The Kilimanjaro Stage Run (Tanzania)

Trail runners looking for a unique challenge will want to add the Kilimanjaro Stage Run to their list of things to do. The multi-day trip sends travelers off on a 260 km (161 mile) run around Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in all of Africa. Each day, they’ll travel by the same footpaths that have been used by the local tribesmen for generations, trekking through small villages and past stunning scenery along the way. This is an epic running challenge, but one that is incredibly rewarding as well.

A Multisport Adventure In The Galapagos (Ecuador)

Maybe you’re the type of person who doesn’t want to be confined to a single type of activity for the duration of your vacation. If so, then fear not, there are certainly good travel options for you as well. For instance, you might want to take a multisport adventure to the Galapagos Islands, where you’ll not only get the chance to go kayaking and snorkeling but stand-up paddle boarding too. Located several hundred miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos are home to some of the rarest and most unusual animals on the planet. Visitors who enjoy spending time on the water will get to interact with those creatures while staying very active at the same time.
As you can see from these five trips, there has never been a better time for active travelers. Now more than ever, it is easy to find options that combine physical activity with cultural immersion and exploration. The only questions are: Where do you want to go, and what do you want to do when you get there?
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We all know that staying well hydrated in the blistering heat of summer is crucial to leading a healthy lifestyle, particularly if you are exercising on a regular basis. But did you know that it is just as easy to become dehydrated during the winter months? Failing to stay hydrated can actually be hazardous to your health, potentially leading to much more serious consequences. Here are four reasons why staying hydrated is just as important in the winter as it is in the summer.

A Boost To Your Immune System

Even though temperatures are much colder, the winter also brings much drier air, which can unexpectedly lead to dehydration. This in turn can cause your body to feel sluggish and run-down, with muscle fatigue sometimes being a side effect. This can also cause you to become more susceptible to certain illnesses, such as the common cold or the flu. When you drink plenty of water, you actually give your body the fluids it needs to fight off these issues.

Dehydration Is Less Noticeable

Unlike in the summer, when the hot weather can make us sweat profusely, dehydration is much less noticeable in the winter. Perspiration tends to turn to water vapor very quickly, and extra layers of clothing–combined with the drier air–can cause our bodies to dehydrate without us even realizing that it’s happening. Sometimes we don’t even necessarily feel thirsty. That’s why you should be drinking fluids throughout the day, especially before, during, and after exercising. Because the effects can often be more subtle during the winter, it is important to work preemptively to avoid any problems.

Maintaining Your Weight

The colder weather of winter is often used as an excuse to exercise less and eat more. This can lead to weight gain, which can be further exacerbated by not drinking enough fluids. When properly hydrated, your body is far more efficient at breaking down fats and converting them to energy, which is helpful on those short winter days when it feels like we should be going to bed earlier. Staying hydrated will also prevent your body from retaining fluids. If it doesn’t have enough water, your body will stubbornly hold on to the fluids it has, which can result in weight gain as well.

Stay Warmer

Your body uses water to help maintain its temperature during both the summer and the winter. Not having enough fluids can cause your core temperature to drop, sometimes dramatically. In fact, one of the biggest reasons people suffer hypothermia is that they become dehydrated while staying outside for extended periods of time. Drinking plenty of fluids can help avoid this and actually aid in keeping you warmer. Avoid colder drinks if you can, however. Warm or room temperature fluids are best for the body on especially cold days.

As you can see, there are a number of important reasons why staying hydrated is just as important in the winter as it is in the summer. Consuming plenty of fluids can help alleviate any issues that might arise and go a long way toward keeping you healthy too. No matter which season you’re in, avoid caffeinated beverages or alcohol while rehydrating, as both can do more harm than good. Other than that, just be aware of the cues your body is sending you, and drink plenty of fluids each day.

Do you dread the arrival of winter? Does cold weather make you want to stay inside, binge watching Netflix while curled up in a blanket on the couch? Have you already started counting down the days until spring? If you answered yes to any of these questions, chances are you simply don’t have the right outdoor gear to keep you warm during the winter months. But with the proper clothing, you can actually stay outside for hours on end, enjoying all of the activities the season has to offer while remaining comfortable the entire time.

Staying warm during the winter starts with a proper layering system. That doesn’t mean throw a thick sweater over a flannel shirt and cover yourself in a big, bulky coat, however. Instead, you want to wear layers that are designed to work efficiently with one another to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. Each of those layers has a specific role to play, and when they are correctly paired with one another they can keep you surprisingly warm.

Better still, a good layering system can add a level of versatility that you simply don’t get when wearing heavy sweaters and coats. For instance, if you find yourself getting too warm, you can shed an article of clothing to help cool things off. On the other hand, if you’re not warm enough, adding another layer is simple too. This mix-and-match philosophy is part of what makes a layering system work so well, and why it is the preferred method for staying comfortable outside in the colder conditions.

A true winter layering system is made up of three components: base layer, mid-layer, and an outer layer. How they interact with each other is crucial to their performance, and while each can provide a measure of warmth on its own, their true value doesn’t show itself until they are combined. Here’s what you need to know.

Base Layers

The base layer sits closest to the skin and performs the important task of moisture control. Generally made from merino wool, silk, or specially designed synthetic fabrics, base layers help to wick sweat and other moisture away from the body and have the ability to dry quickly too. This helps you stay warmer during winter activities, particularly after you’ve worked up a sweat. Oftentimes you won’t notice the cold at all while you’re active, but stop for a short time and the perspiration on your body can soon bring on a chill. Good base layers can help prevent that, however, and fend off potential threats of hypothermia in the process.

Mid-Layers

The purpose of a mid-layer is to provide insulation and trap pockets of warm air close to the body. They work in conjunction with your base layers by allowing moisture to evaporate and escape while retaining heat in an efficient way. Mid-layers are generally made of wool, fleece, or down, with some synthetic options, such as Thinsulate, as well. They come in a variety of weights too, which allows you to alter your wardrobe based on weather conditions and activities. If it’s very cold outside, you’ll want to opt for a thicker mid-layer. But if you’re going for a vigorous run, something lighter makes more sense. This is where a good layering system starts to show its versatility, giving you options that more closely fit your needs.

Outer Layer

The final layer in the system consists of a shell jacket, which provides protection not just from the cold temperatures, but other weather conditions too. A good outer layer will repel rain and snow, block the wind, and also keep you warm. Once again, you’ll have a lot of options to choose from depending on the conditions, with outer layers ranging from lightweight windproof jackets to full-blown mountaineering shells built to keep you warm in the harshest conditions on the planet. Most of us won’t need something that dramatic (or expensive!) however, as a good weather-resistant, insulated, and breathable jacket can fulfill all of our needs quite nicely. On the other hand, if you partake in a number of different winter activities or face widely varying weather conditions, you may find that you’ll need several jackets that can perform different roles.

With a layering system, the base layer will be the one constant. The mid- and outer layers can be mixed and matched or added and dropped depending on your needs, but the unique properties of the base layers will always remain. That means on some days you may not need extra insulation, but you’ll still need a shell to keep out the rain. On other days, conditions might be so good that a jacket may not be required at all. But underneath it all, you’ll still want to wear those all-important base layers.

Learning which pieces of gear work best with one another takes a bit of time and experience, although ultimately personal preference plays a big role. But with these articles of clothing in your wardrobe, you’ll soon discover that even Old Man Winter won’t be able to keep you locked inside for weeks on end.

Travel can often be incredibly invigorating for the mind, body, and soul, giving us a chance to escape normal life for a while and visit some truly beautiful and exotic destinations. On the other hand, while on the road we often find ourselves exposed to a wide variety of ailments, some of which have the potential to completely ruin a trip. Here are some of the most common travel bugs that you might encounter, and the best ways to treat them.

Diarrhea

Nothing can ruin a trip faster than the dreaded “Delhi belly” or “Montezuma’s Revenge” as it is known in some parts of the world. Usually contracted through drinking contaminated water, traveler’s diarrhea can be incredibly debilitating, draining the body of strength and energy. The best option is to try to avoid it altogether by drinking only bottled water, avoiding any contact with water from the tap, and even being careful not to swallow any in the shower as well. But if you do become sick, be sure to stay hydrated, use an anti-diarrheal such as Imodium, and get plenty of rest. If the condition persists, you may need to use antibiotics to knock out the bacteria in your body.

Sunburn and Heat Stroke

Other common illnesses that travelers can experience include sunburn and heat stroke, both of which are due to the over exposure to the sun. Sunburn usually results in hot, very sensitive skin that can be painful and make you feel extremely uncomfortable. It can also lead to a fever, but is otherwise more annoying than dangerous. Heat stroke, on the other hand, can be much more serious, sometimes leading to exhaustion, dizziness, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, nausea, and even loss of consciousness. You can avoid either condition by limiting your exposure to the sun, and avoid being too active in excessive heat and humidity. Staying hydrated can help too, and a cold shower or bath can be beneficial in reducing the symptoms. When treating sunburn, cooling lotions and ibuprofen can help lower skin temperatures as well.

Sore Throat

Long flights mean lots of recycled air in the cabin of your plane, not to mention a greater potential of exposure to a virus being carried by another passenger. This can often lead to a sore throat, runny nose, or other conditions that are similar to the common cold. While this isn’t the kind of ailment that is likely to ruin your vacation, it can make things less than ideal, causing you to feel under the weather and not get the most of your travel experience. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, get some extra rest, and use ibuprofen to help manage any lingering soreness. Throat lozenges can help be soothing too.

Food Poisoning

Another common ailment that can strike at home or abroad is food poisoning. Generally caused by contaminated food, this is one affliction that is tough to avoid as it can happen just about anywhere. You can limit your chances of exposure however by eating at finer establishments, ones that come highly recommended, or have good reputations. Definitely avoid places that look unkempt or poorly maintained. Once again, staying hydrated can help ease discomfort, but generally the symptoms (nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, etc.) will subsist over time. Until they do, stick to a simple, bland diet, and don’t exert yourself too much.

Insect Bites

While insect bites are not uncommon in most part of the world, some are much more dangerous than others. For instance, mosquitoes in many developing countries carry malaria and yellow fever, both of which can be potentially life-threatening. If you’re traveling to a part of the world where this is a concern, be sure to research ahead of time the risks you’ll face, and get the proper medications and vaccinations prior to departure.

Also, wear clothing that covers most of your body, and apply insect repellent when visiting particularly difficult places. Other bug bites and stings can usually be treated with topical ointments or even rubbing alcohol, but extra steps are needed to protect yourself from more dangerous threats such as these.

As you can tell, the best way to enjoy the perfect travel experience is to avoid getting any of these illnesses at all. But since that isn’t always easy to do, hopefully these suggestions for how to treat the particular ailment will come in handy should the need arise. The best bet is to get as much rest as possible, drink plenty of water, and don’t over exert yourself. Before you know it, you’ll be back on your feet and back to enjoying your adventure.

There is nothing quite like going for a long hike during the winter. The trails are usually empty, bringing a sense of solitude that simply can’t be replicated in any other season, and a fresh blanket of snow can redefine the beauty of any wilderness setting. But winter also brings some new challenges for the outdoor enthusiast, not the least of which is staying warm and safe while out on the trail. If you’re planning some backcountry escapes this winter, here are some ways to hike smarter and safer.

Watch the Weather

Keeping a close eye on the weather before and during a hike is a good idea at any time of the year, but it is especially important in the winter. Check the forecast before you head out so you know what to expect, and keep an eye on the sky while you’re on the trail to avoid any sudden changes in weather. Winter storms can sometimes develop very quickly, and cold temperatures paired with heavy snow can be a dangerous combination. If you have cell service, use your smartphone to watch for weather alerts, and be sure that you’re back at the trailhead before nightfall, when temperatures will begin to drop sharply.

Dress Appropriately

When setting out on a winter hike the clothes you wear will have a major impact on just how comfortable you are out on the trail. Dress in layers to give yourself more flexibility as temperatures start to fluctuate. If you start to feel too warm, shed a layer to help prevent overheating. When the mercury begins to fall, add another layer to avoid getting too cold. No matter what the conditions are outside when you start the hike, always carry an extra layer or two in your backpack just in case. If the weather takes a sudden shift for the worse, you’ll be prepared to handle the situation.

Additionally, there is an old adage amongst outdoor enthusiasts that says “cotton kills.” Avoid wearing cotton clothing at all costs, because they can get wet easily and won’t dry fast enough. Wet cotton clothes stick to your body, which can lead to a dangerous situation in the winter, often resulting in hypothermia. Invest in good technical base layers made from wool, and you’ll be much safer and happier.

Warm Feet are Happy Feet

More than any other time of the year, proper footwear is essential on a winter hike. If your feet get cold, you’ll only end up being miserable, so invest in a good pair of boots designed specifically for the season. You’ll want shoes that are both waterproof and insulated so that your feet will stay warm and dry the entire time you’re in the backcountry. Add in a thick pair of wool socks, and your toes should remain cozy for hours on end.

Gear Up!

Depending on where you’ll be hiking, and the conditions that you’ll encounter there, you may need to carry some extra gear with you in the backcountry. For instance, snowshoes make hiking in deep snow much easier, while crampons provide stability on ice and rock when climbing in the mountains. An avalanche beacon may be useful if you’ll be traveling in areas that are prone to snow slides and a shovel, headlamp, and hand warmers may come in handy too. The point is, even if your pack gets a bit heavier, it is better to have the extra gear and not need it than to wish you had brought it if an emergency arises.

Have Plenty to Eat and Drink

You’ll burn plenty of calories while on a winter hike, so make sure you have a good meal before you head out, and carry lots of snacks with you when you go. Food will provide the fuel that will help you to stay warm in the cold weather, so don’t be afraid to eat regularly. Be sure to drink plenty of water too, as staying hydrated will allow you to avoid hypothermia and keep you moving efficiently on the trail. The colder temperatures might lead you to believe otherwise, but It is just as important to carry water with you on a winter hike as it is in the summer.

Don’t Go It Alone

If you’re going on a winter hike in the backcountry, don’t go it alone. With the added challenges and dangers that come along with the season, it is good to travel in pairs to help keep each other safe. Should an emergency situation arise, you’ll be able to assist one another, or in dire situations someone can go for help. Chances are, everything will go exactly as expected, in which case its always more fun to have some company on the trail to share in the adventure.

Share Your Plans

Before you set out from home, be sure that you’ve shared your plans with a friend or family member. Let them know exactly where you’re going, how long you intend to be gone, and when you expect to be back. That way, if something should happen they’ll know when you are overdue and where to start searching for you. And when you’ve finished your hike, don’t forget to let them know that you arrived home safely. They’ll appreciate knowing all went well.

If you love the outdoors, don’t let winter lock you inside for weeks on end. Instead, embrace the season and enjoy it to the fullest. With a little forethought, preparation, and experience, you’ll find it is just as rewarding hiking during that season as it is any of the others.