A Traveller’s Guide to Empowered Eating

It’s so common that good travel results in a bad diet. The same lack of control that garners us unexpected excitement has a tendency to result in tough culinary decisions. Out of our element, we tend to give in to whatever’s around. Exacerbating the problem is the fact that by this point we’re usually having too much fun to care anyways. After all, we’re on vacation.

Pity though, because we should care. Unhealthy eating slows us down and makes us tired, cranky, and unhappy. A healthy diet is a step towards a healthy holiday. Although vacation weight gain isn’t inevitable, it is if you treat it as such. Here are some easy tips to empower your travelling food habits and ward off inflated waistlines.

Prepare for Air

Transportation days are chief culprits for limiting healthy food choices. In and out of airports, ferries and train stations, it’s hard not to fill the void with fast-food and vending machine grub. Fortunately, there are healthy alternatives that mindful travellers can often spot. Healthy wraps and sushi are terminal staples and should be a go-to meal in a pinch.

Portions

How much is in a “serving?” It varies from place to place, but I wouldn’t take their word for it. Healthy diets are the result of analytical thinking. Eating half of a double-sized portion is just good travelling. In fact, I usually find that eating less than lots increases my satisfaction of a meal in general.

Stock Up on Healthy Snacks When You Can

As any seasoned traveller knows, you never know what you’re gonna get. And if that’s the case, stock up on what you need beforehand. If you see healthy snacks that you like, but aren’t hungry at that moment, buy them for later.

Cultural Calories

Trying new foods is one of the best parts of travelling and should be encouraged. An imported note, however, is that many exotic foods are so unique that we tend to forget to ask ourselves “what’s in it?” Just because you aren’t at McDonalds, doesn’t mean it’s not just as bad! Try it and move along.

Make Your Calories Count

Nuts are a great snack on the go, but also very high in calories. This is bad, right? Not necessarily. Make sure you give yourself enough calories when you need them! If you’re planning a day of biking or hiking, trail mix is a great way of giving yourself the fuel you need.

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Adventure Withdrawal: 5 Signs You’re Suffering

Adventure travel changes lives, no embellishment necessary. But the hard truth of the matter is that real life awaits us on the other side, whether we like it or not. The transition back to our urban reality can either be easy or ugly. So how are you coping? Here are five signs you’re suffering from adventure withdrawal.

You’re Victimized By Reverse Culture Shock

So much for culture shock, how ‘bout reverse culture shock!? Many of us take the necessary mental energy to prepare for the unforeseen social differences of our destination, but few of us prepare for the impact it has on our worldview and subsequent return home. Our best friends seem weird. Our oldest routines seem pointless and wrong. Our world seems askew. The cure? It’s your choice between time and more travel. I prefer the latter, but sometimes am forced to settle for the former

You Are Experiencing a Sudden Rush of Life

On the other end of the spectrum, an adventure can invigorate us with a burst of ambition and energy. Adventure travel thrusts us into such an active and “yes-I-can” lifestyle that it has wonderful residual effects on our home-lives. People who have always simultaneously loved and neglected nature are prone to opening up to adventure in their hometown upon return.

Altered Public Behaviour

It is a common opinion that one’s hometown setting isn’t exactly a friendly environment (more so for cities). People are busy, have places to go, and no time for anything in between. Conversely, travelling abroad teaches us to open up to our neighbours and invite their stories into our lives. Travellers returning home are often enlightened with this new connection to our fellow man/women. The trick is to make it last!

You’re Making Unusual Orders While Dining

A keen sense of adventure takes on many facets. One of my favourites is food! Although we all agree that food shouldn’t be boring and predictable, how come we let it be just that by ordering safe and familiar dishes every time? It is the mark of an adventure-convert to order meals they cannot pronounce!

You Find Yourself Bargaining in Retail Stores

After bargaining down the Guatemalan street merchant for your new multi-coloured pancho, you caught a glimpse of microeconomics at its finest. Unfortunately, Nordstrom isn’t as flexible. It’s worth a shot though, right?

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Singles Unite on a Venezuelan Valentine

With the percentage of single American’s fast approaching the 50% mark, this segment of the population is deceptively large and often overlooked. Each year, Valentine’s Day invigorates half of the population at the other’s expense. Instead, the message singles should be receiving is to enjoy life by one’s own merit – and there’s no better way to enjoy life than on a fun and social outdoor adventure amongst likeminded individuals.

This has promoted us to create a new kind of adventurous opportunity over the course of this year’s Valentine’s Day. During the period of the year often devoted to honoring love and commitment, single travellers are invited to hop aboard Viva Venezuela! a trip devoted to empower its single participants. Single travellers will be met with no single supplement fee and no mention of any special significance of February 14th.

This 9-day itinerary is epitomized by undiscovered challenge and variety. This emphasizes personal achievement and instills independence within travellers. Among stints of hiking and rafting, the group will mountain bike across the Andean mountain range. Overnights are in cozy family-run haciendas, rich with traditional flavor. A day of wildlife viewing on horseback will cap off this singles-only adventure. This special departure of Viva Venezuela! embarks on February 11th until the 19th.

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This Valentine Romance isn’t in a Box, it’s in a Shared Experience

This Valentine’s Day, we’re offering up the true meaning of togetherness by announcing customizable Valentine’s Day adventures in Belize. In lieu of the expected heart shaped box of chocolates, experience-minded couples will choose their departure date, multi-sport activities, and spend Valentine’s Day amongst the most romantic setting of all, the great outdoors. Flowers and Champagne will spark the romance upon arrival.

Each year, Valentine’s Day falls further into it’s disparaging role as a “Hallmark Holiday.” The true spirit of romance isn’t found in a box, but in the beating hearts of a shared experience. Nothing brings people together like an adventure. By customizing an active trip for two, couples will get the face-time they need, served with healthy dose excitement.

An intimate setting at heart, Belize is the perfect country for couples to get lost in love. Exploring the ancient ruins of Xunantunich, horseback riding through tangled jungles, and tranquil inner tubing through Mayan caves are just a few of the potential activities awaiting bright travellers.

Dates are available both during and after February 14th – allowing couples to take advantage of this special Valentine’s Day adventure on the day itself or receive a future getaway as a gift. Customized itineraries will be assembled based on the offerings of the regularly scheduled itinerary of The Belize Blast! The trip cost starts at $2,799 USD (land only).

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BikeHike Adventures’ Shiny New Tag-Line

All of us at BikeHike Adventures are pleased to unveil our new company tagline – “connecting the world through active travel.” After nearly 18 years of operating under the tagline “multi-sport adventures for earthlings addicted to outdoor life,” we feel a change is necessary to augment BikeHike’s growth and direction.

BikeHike specializes in active adventures with an emphasis on authentic cultural encounters. Using multi-sport as a vehicle to drive social and cultural connections, we fuel a layered experience benefiting everyone involved. “Connecting the world” is about connecting travellers to both each other and the locals around the world – and we do it by multi-sport!

With BikeHike, it’s not uncommon for solo travellers to make lifelong friendships during their vacation. This is precisely what five independent Galápagos travellers did in December. They are now customizing an additional BikeHike trip to Belize!

Coming soon, our new tagline will be supported by a brand new website and new look for the blog. Stay posted for our spring time site-launch!

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How to Convince an Apprehensive Traveller to Join You on an Adventure

What could possibly be more exciting than going on an adventure? Seeing the world from new angles, challenging yourself with every step and never looking back. Sure, it sounds exciting to most of us, but if you’re reading this, chances are you know someone who is a little apprehensive about adventure travel.

Adventures are best when shared, so it’s important for all parties to feel comfortable before embarking. Here are some helpful tips to help a friend shed their fear and slip into a more adventurous frame of mind.

Sweet Sweet Reassurance

One popular reason for adventure apprehension is rooted in a “can I actually do that” mentality. Adventure travel is synonymous with challenge, but one might ask “how much challenge?” Fortunately, the amount of challenge involved in adventure travel is completely up to the traveller. Choosing an easy or moderate trip rating ensures you’re adventure will never leave your comfort zone.

Emphasize Culture

Adventure travel offers a layered and immersive experience. In addition to the active component, many adventures are also deeply rooted in cultural offerings as well. Educate your friend about the rich culture associated with your destination. It may provide them the excitement they need to come around.

Get Them Active in Adventure Media

Social media has made a particularly large impact on the adventure world. Why? Because who doesn’t like sharing a good travel story! Get your toes wet through Facebook, Twitter, Tweetups, and Adventure Blogs. The adventure is always stirring somewhere.

Show Them Adventure Footage

Instead of telling your friend about a trip, show them! Take a look at this Moroccan adventure video about the Mountain Biker’s Dream. Bill Campbell really told a story with this one:

Buy Them Adventure Gear

Another adventure deterrent is a lack of gear. Although most equipment is provided by your adventure travel operator, some additional personal items are necessary. Try strategically giving your friend a new pair a biking shorts, a bike helmet, or hiking shoes. They’ll be looking for all sorts of excuses to use them!

Constantly Make Indiana Jones Referrences

To bring out the adventurer in someone, try making their day-to-day life more adventurous. My ridiculous trick is slipping Indiana Jones quotes into regular conversation. “I keep telling you, you listen to me more, you live longer!” Throwing in some theme song under your breath doesn’t hurt either.

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Interview: Meghan Burton Retells Her BikeHike Galápagos Experience

Last November, BikeHike’s own Meghan Burton hopped aboard the Galápagos Multisport. I sat down with Meghan shortly after to discuss her first Galápagos experience. Here’s what she had to say.

Why did you choose to go to the Galápagos Islands?

Meghan: I’ve always wanted to go. It was one of my must-do destinations. I love wildlife and birds and that’s exactly what the Galápagos is known for. I’m not a crazy birdwatcher or anything, but there are birds there that are found nowhere else in the world. I knew I had to see it for myself.

What was the process of getting to the Islands and the subsequent beginning of your trip?

Meghan: The Galápagos islands are one time zone west of mainland Ecuador. I left Quito with the tour group for a two-hour flight to Baltra Island. From there was a five-minute ferry ride to Santa Cruz Island. This is the main island and where our adventure began.

What surprised you most about the Galapagos Islands?

Meghan: From the pictures I had seen, I wasn’t expecting it to be so lush and green. I had been exposed to the dry and brown terrain and was surprised to see forests of green plants and trees. Also, being such a popular destination, I had thought it would have been busier. It wasn’t. In fact, our group was completely alone for most of the excursions. No tourists.

What were the biggest challenges associated with the Galapagos Multi-sport?

Meghan: Elements of the mountain biking were challenging for me. Due to the volcanic nature of the islands, there is lots of incline. Fortunately, there was always a support car available to assist bikers to the top. The downhill part was a blast as usual. One of the biking days ended on a white sand beach so we could all jump in the water after our day of biking!

What was the most rewarding activity?

Meghan: That’s tough, but I’d have to say the snorkelling. We got to swim with manta rays, sea turtles and sharks. Sea lions were so friendly – they would play and bite on our fins! There was also loads of fish. You can get so close to the wild life!

Were the animals abundant everywhere, or only on specific parts of the islands?

Meghan: There were actually more animals than I thought there’d be – everywhere we went. Even in town. So much so that locals probably find it annoying. But not us! For instance, at the market there are pelicans and seals poking their heads in and out of operations – making their voices heard! Specific animals are regionalized like the marine lizards and blue-footed boobies, but there is always some form of life around.

Can you comment on the hiking?

Meghan: We did many hikes. Some short – some long. One hike was 16km where we hiked along the rim of a volcano. Walking on actual lava rocks is an experience. This particular volcano last erupted in 2005. We could see in the caldera and where it all went when it erupted. From there were fantastic views of the other islands. Another hike took us through a lava tunnel where we needed headlamps – very exploratory.

Can you comment on the Kayaking?

Meghan: The kayaking was great. We went through a region called “The Love Crack.” There were turquoise waters and little cliffs on both sides. This is where we spotted the blue-footed boobies. Later on, we were startled by a crashing noise. Shortly after we discovered that a pelican had just dive-bombed right in front of us! It was wild.

How many people were on your trip?

Meghan: There was seven of us on the trip – plus our guide Jorgen.

What was it like to finally meet Jorgen?

Meghan: It was great. I’ve talked to him for years, but never met him in person. He is so easy to get along with. He always goes above and beyond for our travellers.

What were some other trip highlights?

Meghan: Jorgen got us invited into a local home for some home cooking! They served us a delicious ceviche. On another occasion they made us traditional Ecuadorian barbequed chicken and beef. Their home is a sight to be seen. Although the outside is very unassuming, the inside is cozy with elaborate homemade furniture – the owner is a carpenter. He had made all of the furniture including the table and chairs that we ate on!

Read more about the Galapagos Multi-sport.

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7 Things You Didn’t Know About Brazil

Brazil is big, beautiful, and full of life. But like a quiet genius, the more you discover about Brazil – the more impressed you become. Here are some lesser-known facts about the tropical giant.

1. Named After the Brazil Nut – NOT other way around!

Back when the Portuguese founded Brazil, a tree named “Pau-Brasil” was very abundant. Today’s Brazil nut comes from this same tree. The country being originally named “Terra de Santa Cruz” (Land of Santa Cruz), Brazil tried to distance it’s self from the territory that France was then interested in occupying. An attempt to hide Brazil’s connection to Santa Cruz, it was renamed Brazil.

2. Home to the Most Species of Monkeys in the World

Brazil inhabits a third of the world’s 300 monkey species. In fact, over the last 15 years, 14 new species of monkeys have been found there. This fantastic variety of wildlife is common to Brazil. Estimates claim there are up to four million species of plants and animals in Brazil.

3. The Longest Country in the World

Brazil is long. How long? It spans approximately 2,800 miles (4,500 km) from north to south. More than just a day trip

4. Home to the World’s Largest River…Sort Of

Although the Amazon River is technically the second longest in the world, it is actually the largest if you take into account water volume.

5. Home to the Largest Japanese City Outside of Japan

Believe it or not, the city of São Paulo has the largest population of Japanese citizens in the world – outside of Japan of course.

6. Over 200 Languages

As anyone who’s ever met a Brazilian knows, they like to talk, and they do it quickly. Not surprisingly, over 200 languages exist in Brazil today, and there used to be more. Estimates claim that around 800 languages have inhabited Brazil at some point.

7. Brazilians Have Been Stand-up Paddle Boarding For Centuries

The emerging sport of stand-up paddle boarding isn’t entirely new to Brazilian culture. Native Brazilians have been paddling down the Amazon River for centuries in stand-up vessels. Typically, locals navigate from the back of a traditional dug out canoe and paddle from a standing position.

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Ten Trending Adventure Travel Destinations for 2012

1) Brazil

Brazil is in the privileged position to excel in almost every active area. Jungle hikes connecting remote fishing villages, sea kayaking in Tropical Fjords, and elaborate zip-lining adventures through forest canopies and waterfalls showcase Brazil’s adventurous side.

2) Guatemala

2012 has finally arrived and all eyes are on the Mayans. Guatemala is the perfect mix of culture, relics and outdoor activity – active volcanoes, colourful local dress, Mayan ruins, and wild highland terrain.

3) Galápagos

The Galápagos is a very special place. That’s why it’s no surprise it was BikeHike’s most popular destination in 2011! Coming soon are stiff Galápagos tourism restrictions that will minimize traveller’s ability to visit the islands. Uncertain future access to the islands makes 2012 the year to cross the Galápagos off your bucket list.

4) Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s emerging adventure meccas full of hidden surprises. This tiny country, part of former Yugoslavia, is sandwiched between Austria, Croatia, France, Italy, Lichtenstein and Switzerland. It possesses all the beauty and sophistication of its surrounding countries, but has the added advantage of warm and hospitable people untouched by mass tourism.

5) Turkey

Over the last five years, Turkey has finally begun to receive the attention it deserves in the adventure travel community. Since it is a one-of-a-kind destination, 2012 will be no different. The fantastic (root word being fantasy*) landscape of Cappadocia is like nothing else on this earth. Pair this with the rich and historic culture of the locals and you’ve got the right setting for adventure.

6) Scotland

Coast to coast trips are all the rage these days amongst mountain bikers. In 2012, Scotland will be at the core of this trend. Challenging singletrack riding from Aberdeen in the east to Ardnamurchan in the west gives bikers the perfect vantage point to take in the rugged green landscape of the highlands.

7) India

It is difficult to imagine a country more in-your-face than India. Its overwhelming diversity stimulates the senses. For the culture hungry traveller, India boasts one of the most bamboozling experiences the world has to offer. It may be 2012, but once in India, you’ll feel transported back in time.

8) Vietnam

Bursts of contrasting culture can be found throughout the carved mountains, snaking dirt roads, and fertile meadows of Vietnam. For travellers looking to dive into nature while occasionally passing upon intimate villages, Vietnam is the place to be in 2012.

9) Morocco

One of the most underrated adventure destinations, Morocco has active, scenic and cultural offerings that will make you a believer. The Atlas Mountains offer stellar mountain biking with distinct sceneries you’ll never forget. The contrasting Sahara desert adds an adventurous element that will make you think you’re dreaming.

10) Panama

Panama is a virtually undiscovered country that has been in the shadow of Costa Rica for the past 20 years. Panama boasts all of the same treasures as Costa Rica with the addition of the Kuna Indian culture and translucent seas.

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10 Reasons Jorgen is a Superstar Guide

It’s common for returning BikeHike travellers to report that their guide made their trip. I always love hearing this. After all the anticipation of wild and adventurous destinations and heart-pumping adventure activities, in the end it’s the unforeseen human connections that really leave the long-lasting affects.

One key contributor to this adventure guide infatuation is Ecuador’s Jorgen. This spirited and talented guide is a large reason why BikeHike’s Galápagos Multi-sport was our most popular trip in 2011. So what makes Jorgen so special? Here are 10 reasons.

1) Instills Confidence & Harmony in the Group

Jorgen has the knack for making every person on the trip seem like they’re the most important person in the world. This goes a long way for both the individual and the group. Nothing better than an injection of positivity while a group is trying to get their “adventure on.”

2) Friendly Yet Professional

As a guide, there is a delicate balancing act between friendliness and professionalism. With his genuine affection for all travellers and his unwavering ability to go above and beyond, Jorgen has mastered this art and then some.

3) Loves His Job

How does Jorgen make it look so easy? It helps when you LOVE your job. What’s best for the group and what’s best for Jorgen are often one in the same!

4) Always Keeps His Cool

One of “adventure’s” defining characteristics is that it doesn’t always run as smoothly as anticipated. This is a fact of reality and we wouldn’t have it any other way. What you need when life throws you a curveball is support from a calm, caring and wise voice to guide you through. Did anyone say Jorgen?

5) Communication

Adventurers come in all shapes and sizes, both mentally and physically. Aside from his decades of guiding experience, Jorgen is a naturally gifted ambassador. He always seems to know the right time to push and the right time to give.

6) Easily Excited

Maybe it’s that Ecuador is one of the most interesting countries in the world, maybe it’s that Jorgen has the curiosity of a new born (probably somewhere in-between). Either way, when Jorgen leads travellers around an adventurous corner, he is just as excited to find out what’s around the bend as they are.

7) Always happy

Jorgen is always happy. It’s infectious.

8) Local Connections

Having lived in Ecuador for over 10 years, Jorgen is one of the locals. As a result, he gets our groups invited into homes to enjoy unique local foods.

9) Experience

Aside from being an adventure guide, Jorgen has also been a mechanical engineer, a commercial fisherman, a foreign-aid worker and a mountain ranger. Quite the well-rounded chap I’d say.

10) Travellers Just Love Him

Here are some recent quotes from our returning Ecuador travellers:

  • “Best tour guide I have ever had! His knowledge and organization of the tour was absolutely excellent.”
  • “There would be nobody better than Jorgen.”
  • “He was very attentive and made sure everyone was having the best time they could, whether it was to arrange a birthday cake, or a stomach remedy.”

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