Originally established in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in 1993, Exotissmo expands beyond several borders and offers travelers well-rounded itineraries throughout Southeast Asia.  To learn more about their company, visit:  http://www.exotissimo.com/

For more information check out their job post on LinkedIn and be sure to apply: http://www.linkedin.com/jobs?viewJob=&jobId=1089125&svfId=737473&trk=

ShareThis

They include several options, you can either browse pre-planned tour or customize your own by filling out a simple form, easily helping you add a music or culinary lesson from local individuals or organizations.

Although they have many tours from which to choose, two destinations that are worth looking into more is their exploration into the arts and culture of India. The majority of the tour takes place in Spiti Valley, India (a region that only receives about 3,000 visitors annually). This Himalayan region borders Tibet and people will get to stay in villages, and learn about sustainability and the arts. Highlights include solar power in villages, traditional arts lessons, and witness and support the endangered dance-form of The Bhuchens. The tour concludes with a visit to Taj Mahal and a Gandhi Legacy tour led by Mohatma Gandhi’s great-grandson, Tushar Arun Gandhi. Be sure to set aside these dates in order to be apart of the tour: May 23rd to June 8th 2011.

Another destination worth mentioning is Cuba (which has recently been in the press as of late due to rumors of a lift in the travel ban) which provides two different tours open to professionals in their respective areas, one explores the traditional forms of music, dance, and art while the other includes culinary lessons, visits to organic farms as well as education forums providing professionals the chance to learn about food security and conservation from cooperatives in the area. The culinary tour takes place June 27 – July 7, 2001 and the Cuba Arts Tour will be June 13-26, 2011.

To learn more about their trips and vision for travel and the arts visit http://ecoartstours.org/

Be sure to follow them on Twitter for interesting posts and links to keep up to date on stories and movements within the art and travel world.

ShareThis

Traveler’s diarrhea (TD) is the most common infectious disease affecting international travelers. The vast majority of these cases are caused by bacteria, with viruses and parasites accounting for about 20% of cases. This disease can be effectively prevented and treated, if it strikes.

Are You Prepared?

Boil it, Cook it, Peel it or Forget it has been standard advice to travelers to reduce risk of TD. While we endorse this common sense strategy, surprisingly, there is little evidence supporting it in medical journals. In fact, there is only 1 medical study that concludes that being careful with food and beverages can reduce your chance of developing traveler’s diarrhea. Nevertheless, this recommendation makes sense. Keep in mind that we physicians commonly offer medical advice that we believe is sound, but may not be proven scientifically. For many medical conditions, proof that our advice is correct may be 15-20 years away, and we need to advise patients today.

New Developments in Traveler’s Diarrhea

• Some TD strains are now resistant to standard antibiotics. Your travel doctor will review your destinations and will prescribe the proper medicines to you.
• TD can develop into a chronic condition called irritable bowel syndrome, when diarrhea and cramps may become a permanent part of your life. Consider this when you are faced with food and beverage choices abroad.
• Active research for a travel vaccine against traveler’s diarrhea is ongoing, but we’re not there yet.
• Which of the following options would you prefer?
• Prevent TD altogether
• Treat it with medication when it occurs to shorten the illness
• Eat, drink, be merry and sprint several times a day to rest rooms and pray that you never encounter a sign that reads, Occupied!

Montezuma has had his revenge with travelers for too long. It’s time for traveler’s to take revenge on him. Our advice? Eat, drink and be careful!

Michael Kirsch, M.D. is a full time practicing physician and author. He is one of the founders of Travel Clinics of America, a national network of physicians that provides international travelers with expert travel advice and vaccinations in their own communities.  Before you travel, visit www.travelclinicsofamerica.com

ShareThis

Crime is a reality of life even on your trip abroad.  Many travelers who are caught up in the moment of an overseas adventure or vacation, let down their guard.  Savvy travelers know that, from the moment the plane touches down, they need to be more vigilant about their personal safety and belongings.  You may be far away from your familiar safety zone.  You need to have both eyes open.

It’s easy for natives to spot tourists as they wander through foreign cities with shopping bags and cameras dangling from their wrists.  Tourists are a high value targets for those who ‘earn a living’ off them.   Pickpockets and travel scammers spend their time trying to separate travelers from their cash & merchandise.  Travelers must be alert and cautious.  Don’t give up any personal  ‘souvenirs’ to local pickpockets.

Here are some travel safety tips.  Some seem obvious, but travelers often forget to pack common sense.

• Avoid wandering through unfamiliar territory alone.
• Never accept an invitation from a person you don’t know who offers you hospitality, a personal tour of the area, a drink, etc.  Be cautious about communicating personal information to friendly strangers.
• Don’t dress flashy.  This is a neon sign that you are a potential victim.
• Travel in legitimate taxis and agree on the fare in advance.  If you demonstrate that you are totally clueless about local currency, then look for dollar signs in the cabbie’s eyes.
• Be wary of pre-paying for local events from hawkers on the street, or even standing at the event location.  The ‘discount’ may end up being a donation into the scammer’s pocket.
• Are your pocket contents vulnerable?  Quick hands in crowded places can find out.  Keep your wallet and camera secure.  It’s wise not to keep large sums of $$$ in one pocket or in one place.
• Consider travel insurance that covers loss of money and personal property.  If you have trip cancellation insurance, does the policy cover wallet and credit card loss?
• Keep a photocopy of important travel documents, credit card numbers and airline ticket information in a safe place.
• Make sure that someone knows your daily itinerary.
• Have a cell phone with you at all times.
• Have phone numbers and contact information for law enforcement and the local U.S. diplomatic offices.
• Stay alert and follow your instincts.  If something doesn’t feel right, then don’t do it or don’t go there.

Speak with your travel doctor about crime avoidance.  Research your destinations to determine if there are any specific safety concerns there.  Be cautious. Be alert. Be safe.

Michael Kirsch, M.D. is a full time practicing physician and author. He is one of the founders of Travel Clinics of America, a national network of physicians that provides international travelers with expert travel advice and vaccinations in their own communities.  Before you travel, visit www.travelclinicsofamerica.com

ShareThis

By Laurel Angrist

Held annually from July 11-13, Naadam is a traditional festival in Mongolia, a widely celebrated national holiday for all Mongols. Three sports activities take centre stage: Mongol wrestling, horse racing and archery. The horse race is often run by kids, some seen above attending Naddam.

Mongolia’s long history owes much to a certain gentle beast of burden – the horse. Under the auspices of the Great Emperor – Genghis Khan – it was on horseback that 12th century Mongol forces captured much of Eurasia and built the most expansive empire in the history of the world. At the time, an efficient mail relay system, called the Yam, also relied on equine power; postmen regularly covered 200-300 kilometres per day – faster than any record set by the United States’ Pony Express. Well into the empire’s 13th- and 14th-century heyday, mounted Mongol warlords were revered as master riders, striking fear into their enemies’ hearts.

Today, horses and horsemanship remain an important part of Mongolia’s traditions and culture. The country is home to approximately 20 million steeds, while the number of Mongolians is barely 2.8 million.

Contemporary tourism has not been blind to the appeal of horses in Mongolia. Cultural activities such as overnight stays with nomadic herdsman are popular among travellers, while horse races capture the imagination of locals and foreigners alike. Of course, the pristine landscape of the Land of the Blue Sky is heaven on horseback – and the country’s vast steppes, dunes and mountains combine to make an unparalleled destination for those looking to get away from it all.

Ride the Wild Steppes

Located just 75 kilometres west of the capital city of Ulaanbaatar is Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, an easily accessible escape for nature lovers. Spanning nearly 300,000 hectares, it is ideal territory for horseback riding.

The riding is moderately challenging and terrain unfamiliar, so hiring a guide is highly recommended, whether on day trips or lengthier adventures. Common routes take riders through open valleys and low hills, and take in scenery that features interesting rock formations, glacial lakes and natural hot springs. The park’s main attractions include the Aryabal Buddhist Monastery and, of course, the wildlife of bear, ibex, wolves and over 250 species of bird.

A look at the singular terrain of Mongolia

Overnight stays in tourist camps are also possible within the park. Continental meals can be served, but some excellent traditional Mongolian dishes include buuz (steamed dumplings), huushuur (fried meat dumplings), tsuivan (stir fried noodles and mutton), bantan (flour and mutton cream soup), banshtai shol (lamb broth with dumplings) and tsai (salted tea).

Experience Nomadic Life

For several thousand years, Mongolian nomads usually live in a 'ger' or felt tent (yurt). Although the shape and traditional components have hardly changed, some of the modern accessories have.

For a real taste of nomadic culture, there’s little like a few nights actually living with a family of nomadic herdsman. The whl.travel local connection in Mongolia, Felt Nation, routinely helps travellers arrange stays with nomadic families. At the ger – a felt-covered Mongolian yurt – travellers gain firsthand knowledge about the importance of horses to the nomadic way of life. During their stay, visitors are encouraged to participate in activities like the herding and grazing of sheep, goat and cows, all while riding horses. At the end of a busy day, a taste of airag, a traditional alcoholic beverage made of fermented mare’s milk, is always in order.

The award-winning Ger to Ger project also arranges rural and responsible cultural homestays, as well as trekking and horseback riding expeditions involving local people. Programmes allow travellers to support nomadic heritage through the practice of traditional skills such as horse training, archery, embroidery or playing the morin khuur (Mongolian horse-head fiddle). Staying with a family also provides an invaluable source of additional income to nomadic herders, nearly 65% of whom live at or below the poverty line.

Encounter Endangered Horses

Approximately 100 km from Ulaanbaatar City, this ranger is on patrol in Mongolia's Khustai National Park, now home to the reintroduced Przewalski wild horse or Takhi.

Filling the western edge of the Mongolian steppe, the world-famous Khustai National Park is just 95 kilometres west of Ulaanbaatar. Established as a protected area by the Mongolian government in 1993, the park is a primary base for a successful wildlife conservation effort to reintroduce the wild and endangered Przewalski horse to its native habitat.

The project, initiated by a Dutch couple – Jan and Inge Bouman – has achieved international acclaim for its success. Today, more than 300 of these rare and beautiful animals roam free across the park’s wild forests and steppes.

The Przewalski horse – or Takhi – is a national symbol of Mongolia. Shorter and stockier than their domesticated cousins, the Takhi have a primitive look with erect manes that resemble Mohawk haircuts. Day-tour travellers interested in seeing the Takhi will have the best luck in the company of a knowledgeable local guide.

Get Hyped About Horse Racing

Mongols worship horses and at no time of the year is this more evident than during the annual Naadam festival. Held each year from July 11-13, the ancient celebration features fierce competitions in sports such as archery and wrestling. The main event – of course – is horse racing, but it bears little resemblance to the western spectator sport.

Instead of being on a track, races are held on the vast open steppe of Khui Doloon Khudag Valley (Valley of the Seven Wells of Khui), approximately 40 kilometres west of Ulaanbaatar. At each race, 200 to 300 horses can be seen riding in a straight line, covering immense distances of 30 kilometres and kicking up a great deal of dust. The event is raced entirely by young riders, some as young as six years old!

Visitors interested in witnessing the races can choose from a variety of viewing locations. Watching from a platform in the middle of the racing lane affords exceptional photo ops, while at the starting line, spectators are treated to the spectacle of hundreds of horses! For some real excitement, stadium-like seating is also available near the finish line, where the cost of admission is free and the thousands of cheering local fans are!

For more about the unique travel opportunities in Mongolia, including accommodation, tours and activities and lots of travel tips, contact Felt Nation, the whl.travel local connection in Mongolia.

Also be sure to check out our latest story on a documentary about nomadic hip hop in Mongolia, Dance to the Beat of Mongolian Bling. Also check out a series we featured about Mongolia, Modern Herder Life in Mongolia, Traveling in Mongolia, New Year Weather, and A Guide to Eating in Mongolia

ShareThis

By Lieke van Leeuwen

The village of Thethi is found in an incomparably beautiful setting

Laura paid her first visit to Albania six years ago and immediately fell in love with the country’s spectacular scenery. She visited beautiful deserted beaches in the south of the nation, where she got to know the passionate people, and rugged mountain ranges in the north, where she connected with hospitable locals. Travelling through the country she saw the enormous potential for tourism that Albania had and was particularly drawn to the Albanian Alps. Realising that most residents would not have the means to promote Albania’s outdoor opportunities to travellers from abroad, she decided that she wanted to do something for the locals.

Opening up the North

Together with her Albanian partner, Gent, Laura started Outdoor Albania, a tour operator specialising in sustainable travel. From the beginning, their aim has been to give their clients a life-seeing experience rather than a sightseeing excursion. For the past five years, they have focused mainly on promoting theAlbanian Alps and the North. This

A typical Albanian village house in the village of Vermosh in the Albanian Alps

pristine area has hardly changed over the last 50 years due to its rugged landscape, which kept much of it isolated throughout the 500-year occupation by the Ottoman Empire, the Italian invasion of 1939 and many years of communist rule. Thanks to a network of local families who run village homes and guesthouses, Outdoor Albania now leads travellers to the heart of this amazing and untouched region.

One of Laura’s favourite places in northern Albania is Thethi, a village surrounded by mountains, rough limestone formations, dense forests, canyons and waterfalls. The harsh natural environment has always made living here hard for the locals, but you wouldn’t know this from their warmth and hospitality.

A Real Local Connection

One of the families in Outdoor Albania’s Thethi network is the Carku family. A woman by the name of None Age – also known as Mother Carku – operates a village house along with her son Mehill and his wife Valbona. For an experience of Albanian culture and rural life, there is nothing like an overnight stay at their Carku Guesthouse or other village homes, like the Terthorja Guesthouse, as it helps locals earn an income through community-based tourism. To Laura, a stay in a village home ensures a unique cultural experience and guarantees that the money spent goes directly to those who need it.

Mother Carku oversees life at the Carku Guesthouse of Thethi, Albania

When entering the traditional stone house of the Carku or another family, all guests are welcomed warmly. At the Carku Guesthouse, while guests appreciate the fragrance of thick pinewood planks and sip homemade raki in the garden, Mother Carku prepares a delicious meal with fresh home-grown vegetables and home-baked bread.

Unique to the Carku village house is that it was the first to open its doors to visitors during the late 1990s, when the community tourism projects were initiated. The guesthouse became a regular meeting place for locals to share their experiences and visions for the future. Serving as an example, the Carku family has been able to demonstrate to the community the immense potential it has to offer.

An Eye for Nature Preservation

Next to meeting local people and experiencing their culture, Laura believes that preserving nature is a fundamentally important aspect of local travel. Consequently, Outdoor Albania endeavours to make tours nature-friendly, always striving to promote protection of landscapes, bio-habitats, traditions and monuments. Furthermore, they provide environmental education for local inhabitants, committing them to the protection of their natural and cultural heritage.

Laura (centre) and others from the Outdoor Albania team pay a visit to the family of Nacaj Guesthouse in Vermosh in the Albanian Alpsheritage.

Laura and Gent try to involve as many local residents as possible in their business, using local guides, winemakers, drivers and porters on all of Outdoor Albania’s tours. They have also started the Outdoor Albania Association to implement a wide range of sustainable tourism projects.

Laura enjoys collaborating with the locals she meets and seeing the small benefits brought to them through community tourism initiatives. She loves hearing the enthusiastic, colourful, and amusing stories of her guests after a tour or a stay in one of the village houses. For her, local travel became the way to show visitors the ‘real’ Albania, a country with a stunning natural environment, ancient culture and rich national heritage.

Outdoor Albania is the whl.travel local connection in Albania. Please contact them for more information about local travel in Albania, including hotels, tours, activities and a lot of insider tips.

For more Albanian adventure, check out a trip we featured a while back, Hiking the Northern Albanian Alps as well as an accompanying visual blog.

ShareThis

View from Mt. Elbert, Photo by Jack B.

Today is your lucky day. Nope, we didn’t read that off of a fortune cookie. Adventure Running Co. has a few last minute openings on their Colorado Trail Adventure Run scheduled August 9th -13th in Frisco, CO.

Experience the Rockies like none other as you deeply breathe in the alpine wilderness and up to ninety-eight miles of bliss that most don’t have the chance to experience in five days. Starting at Kenosha Pass (3,048m) burn some serious trail as you begin to make your way towards Mt. Elbert (4,401m), which is about 10 miles southwest of Leadville. Leadville has made its mark in the running community for hosting the Leadville Trail 100, which takes place August 21st this year. If you’re one of the many that has been motivated by the national bestseller,  Born To Run, this Colorado Trail run will definitely get you ready for the Leadville 100, any other race you might be preparing for, and provide plenty of exhilaration.

Adventure Running Co. will be offering a 25% discount off their regular tour price until August 2nd so get a move on and sign up before they run out of space.

ShareThis

Distant View of Lodge

Located within the Rio Azul Protected Area in southwestern Argentina is La Confluencia Lodge & Spa, the noisiest it gets is when the waters of Azul and Encanto Blanco roar as they rise with snow melt. Given its remote location, La Confluencia was built with sustainability in mind, using hay bale walls as insulation and lumber from nearby timber that had fallen naturally.

La Confluencia continues to grow and attract visitors, and in a time when folks around the world are learning to build and grow “smarter” and more sustainably, La Confluencia is looking to do the same. They are looking to add an Operations and Marketing Intern to their team for a period of 6 to 12 months.

Responsibilities of the job would include:

• Building awareness of La Confluencia with adventure and nature tourism industry – network the business to industry partners and, if necessary, attend industry events
• Increasing number of confirmed group visits to La Confluencia
• Managing the marketing campaign to build the La Confluencia brand – including blog updates and building presence in online travel communities
• Increasing traffic to the La Confluencia website
• Designing and implementing new marketing ideas and campaigns to build business for La Confluencia
• Communicating with prospective guests as necessary

They are looking for a self-motivated candidate whose qualifications would include a background in social media marketing and a desire to constantly keep up to date on emerging trends, is proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel, is able to communicate on a professional level via email as well over the phone, and holds a strong sense of customer service.

To learn more contact mark@laconfluencia.com

ShareThis

Last Month

Congratulations to Tom Wilson of Burlington, VT for correctly identifying Avenida de Mayo in Buenos Aires last month.

ShareThis

The film documents the Massai people in Kenya and their struggle with conservation laws who have now become spokespeople for community-based conservation and the benefits they are able to reap in effect.  According to a recent update in April 2009, the establishment of Il Ngwesi Group Ranch  has provided the community with enough income to contribute to projects such as: “an HIV/ Aids program that has employed 17 people from the community, a training project to improve the quality and market-access for women’s handicrafts, upgrades to roads and the landing strip, an elephant fence around the school, renovation of teachers’ housing, a mobile bank, a new sinkhole and water pipeline repairs. “

Check out the trailer we featured in 2007 or visit their website to view other trailers and learn more about community development through conservation and other sustainable initiatives.

ShareThis