Travel offers many high points
Story: Ian Stalker
It seems that there’s no shortage of opportunities for those in the travel industry to take the high road.
Literally.
Travel Courier has found numerous examples of travel experiences that lead people to lofty ground and in one case well above ground.
Here are those experiences.
Reach higher ground in South America
Dallyce Macas, explora
Dallyce Macas knows of a great opportunity for people to reach higher ground.
Macas, Canadian representative for South American lodging company explora, which has retreats in remote locations, notes Andean peaks reach towering heights, and finds one area particularly intriguing.
“The ultimate lofty travel experience is discovering the unearthly world of the Altiplano, the high plateau located in the north of Chile and western Bolivia, averaging 3,750 meters or 12,300 feet above sea level,” she states. “The overland journey departs from the driest desert in the world, the Atacama in Chile, en route to the world’s largest salt flats near Uyuni, Bolivia.
“As a traveller you go from the deep silence of the terracotta-coloured mountains in the Atacama Desert to the endless white of the Uyuni Bolivia Salt Flat: two of the world’s most fascinating locations in the journey of a lifetime, travelling across one of the remotest regions on Earth.”
explora, twice voted the World’s Best Exploration Company, introduced this overland journey to its clients 10 years ago.
“Cross the desert from Chile to Bolivia in a private 4×4 vehicle, led by an expert explora guide and a local driver,” Macas suggests. “Explora’s award-winning Atacama lodge, along with explora’s exclusive mountain homes, and the lodge in Uyuni –all established in partnership with local communities– are the bases from which we go out and explore, day after day, the unique landscapes and places of the Altiplano.
“Previously using converted cargo storage containers as basecamp accommodation along the route, what was missing is the perfect match between simplicity and comfort, rest and exploration while having the luxury of the essential,” Macas continues. “So, two new private mountain homes and the Uyuni lodge have been moved to the locations, replacing the converted cargo containers. Built with modular techniques, and with exceptional use of architecture, these sustainable lodges leave no footprint and provide guests with the ultimate comfort.”
Meanwhile, Macas makes it clear that the high terrain is fascinating.
“The Altiplano contains centuries of pure beauty, untouched,” she states. “The only way to understand it is to feel it. Breathe it. Touch it. Yet, we are a grain of sand amidst its colossal landscapes of colour-filled lagoons, steaming geysers, peculiar rock formations, salt flats, mountains, volcanoes, and deserts.
“Besides the Himalayas, the Altiplano is the only other location in the world that bears this rare kind of geography.”
Quebec's Mont SUTTON blazes a new trail
Mont SUTTON, Quebec
Quebec’s Mont SUTTON doesn’t want to be trail-ing other resort areas when it comes to accommodating mountain bikers.
And so the Eastern Townships resort area, in collaboration with its partner Plein air Sutton/MTB saw the partial opening of its trail network on May 15.
Following a community clean-up and the “phenomenal work put in by the Plein air Sutton/MTB team,” 19 of the 31 trails were completely or partially open for the resort area’s first weekend of operation.
“The trail network has something to please all mountain bikers, offering cross-country and enduro trails, with different skill level requirements, ranging from family to expert, in a double track and/or single track format,” Mont SUTTON says.
All details related to mountain biking are updated punctually on montsutton.com/bike.
Social distancing and hygiene protocols have been put in place to ensure the safety of visitors. For more information go to montsutton.com/covid
Meanwhile, Mont SUTTON reports it will soon be home to the longest zipline in the Eastern Townships.
Discover a national park with unparalleled views of the Caribbean
Abdalah Castillo, Dominican Republic Tourism Board
Abdalah Castillo knows of a natural feature that may provide unparalleled views of the Caribbean.
Castillo, with the Dominican Republic Tourism Office’s Toronto office, notes Dominican Republic terrain is more than long beaches and states that his homeland is ideal for travellers seeking sustainable and socially responsible travel.
“To experience the rich biodiversity of the DR, explore Armando Bermudez National Park,” he says. “This region features Pico Duarte, the highest peak both in the DR and the entire Caribbean region at over 10,000 feet. The elevation results in an unusually cool climate, allowing for a unique range of flora and fauna. Travellers are likely to find towering pine and mahogany trees alongside palmchats and parrots! For an authentic experience that respects the surrounding environment, travellers may hire mules for overnight journeys.”
Meanwhile, Castillo says the Dominican Republic has an endless number of enchanting environments.
“For a tranquil escape from the bustle of modern life, visit the Bahia de las Aguilas,” he suggests. “With five miles of pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this location earns its reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Along with the surrounding Jaragua National Park, this beach is protected as part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and thus features no hotels, restaurants, or shops. This creates a rare opportunity for visitors to experience the landscape free of distractions. The beach can be reached by all-terrain vehicle or by boat to meet the needs of emissions-conscious travellers. .
“Finally, no traveller with a thirst for adventure will want to miss the 27 Charcos de Damajagua waterfalls. After a day of hiking through lush forest, travellers will make their descent through water-cushioned chutes into shimmering turquoise pools. These excursions are run by local guides, and entrance fees to the park benefit all residents. This allows for a mutually beneficial travel experience, creating life-long memories for you while also supporting the local economy – a vacation you can feel good about!
“If creating a positive economic and environmental footprint through tourism matters to you, look no further than the DR for your next trip.”
Pedal away in Quito
Laura Nesterau, Quito Tourism Board
Laura Nesterau says pedal-pushers with a sense of wanderlust will feel right at home in lofty Quito and its mountainous environs.
“There are many ways to explore Ecuador’s capital and one of them is by bike,” says Nesterau, with the Quito Tourism Board. “Quito’s location in the heart of the Andes, makes this city an ideal destination to explore its streets and natural surroundings while cycling. It’s authentic and exciting, it allows you to move at your own pace, far from the crowds and it’s also affordable.”
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more people in Quito are cycling every day, not only as an alternative to avoid crowded public transportation, but also for its multiple environmental and health benefits.
“Quito preserves in its streets, buildings and squares, a multifaceted city that unites the past and the present, a historical city and one that is continuously modernizing, which makes the Ecuadorian capital the ideal destination to discover by bike. Beyond the tourist attractions and the city center, cycling tourists are still something of a novelty, giving you a chance to experience regular Ecuadorian life.”
The city has over 60 kilometers of bike paths to enjoy in the company of family and friends. Kid–friendly cycling paths are located at the Itchimbia Metropolitan Park, with a total of 3 kilometers of circuits designed according to the age and experience of riders.
Nesterau adds that mountain biking is becoming an increasingly popular sport and Quito’s surroundings are a paradise of extensive network of roads, unpaved tracks, backroads and off-road trails for that type of cyclist.
“Approximately 70 kms from Quito, in the parish of Pacto, there is an ideal area for mountain biking,” she says. “The Pacto-Mashpi route begins at the Iglesia de Pacto and ends in the community of San José Mashpi, with a perfect area to have a picnic, camp or take a bath in its crystal-clear waters. The route crosses a large part of the Mashpi-Guaycuyacu-Sahuangal Conservation and Sustainable Use Area. This one is the first Protected Natural Area of the Metropolitan District of Quito.
“In the same area, there’s another famous route, Pacto – Santa Rosa. The place offers a warm temperature and a humid climate due to its location at the foot of the Western Andes mountain range. It is 1,145 meters above sea level, which is advantageous for cycling without worrying about unexpected rain.
“Another place not to be missed for mountain biking lovers is the Cotopaxi National Park with its mesmerizing volcanic landscapes and an 8-hour mountain biking and hiking tour. During this tour, emblematic places are visited, such as the Jorge Rivas Refuge, Los Glaciares Park, or the Limpiopungo Lagoon.”
Roger Federer and Oscar winner Robert De Niro put the spotlight on Switzerland
Switzerland tourism
A country likely most frequently associated with the Alps has recruited Swiss tennis great Roger Federer for its latest promotional film. Federer’s joined by legendary actor and Oscar winner Robert De Niro. In the short film, De Niro initially turns down an invitation by Federer to be part of a movie about Switzerland. De Niro thinks the destination is pure, impressive and utterly beautiful but lacking drama, something De Niro focuses his acting on.
Earlier this year Roger Federer announced his new role as ambassador for Switzerland Tourism.
“I was really excited to have a worldwide campaign where I can invite people to Switzerland to highlight its beauty, because I am so very proud to be from such a beautiful country,” Federer said.
Federer reached out for support from Hollywood and a plan to showcase the beauty of Switzerland in a movie featuring both Federer and De Niro resulted.
In the film, viewers can witness a conversation between the tennis player and the actor. Federer tries hard to convince De Niro to be part of his project but De Niro turns down the fictional project.
In reality though, De Niro was very willing to respond to Federer’s call for help.
“I’ve admired Robert De Niro’s work for quite some time now, but I wasn’t sure he’d agree to be part of our Swiss project. I’m very excited it worked out so well,'” Federer said.
The film shot last fall in Zermatt and New York can be viewed online worldwide.
“Adding this touch of Hollywood to our campaign will bring more attention to Switzerland and its dramatically beautiful nature,” stated Martin Nydegger, CEO of Switzerland Tourism.
More projects loom and already running is Roger’s Choice of things to discover and do in Switzerland. It can be found on MySwitzerland.com/Roger. The variety of experiences featured there ranges from relaxing and reenergizing up to very dramatic.
Scrolling through them might impress De Niro.
“I’m tempted to discover Switzerland’s natural beauty soon – maybe together with Roger,” he said.
The sky is the limit
Niyama Private Islands, The Maldives
Niyama Private Islands is inviting tourists to drop in.
The Maldives resort is offering visitors a chance to go skydiving, seeing the Indian Ocean from above while doing so.
“Tandem skydiving is the best way for first-timers to experience this thrilling, adrenaline-fuelled sport in the safest of environments, with the opportunity to descend over the tropical islands of the Indian Ocean,” the resort says. “Guests play an active part in the jump, descending by freefall and parachute, with the seasoned instructor connected from the leap to the landing.
“The exhilarating experience begins with a seven-minute speedboat ride to Dhaalu Airport on a neighboring island, followed by a short briefing before boarding the plane for a 20-minute ascent to 12,000 feet. The jump involves a one-minute freefall at the extreme speed of 200km/hour before the parachute opens for a five-minute ‘flight’ down to the white-sand beaches, whilst enjoying spectacular birds-eye views of the resort and the wider atoll.”
The tandem sky-dive costs US$639 per person (based on two people skydiving), including the roundtrip transfers to Dhaalu Airport. The dive can be captured by a hand camera for a small additional charge, and for those wishing to share their dare-devil experience with family and friends on their social channels, an outside camera can be arranged with a separate skydiver to create the ultimate digital memory.
Niyama Private Islands offers a collection of 134 villas, suites, and pavilions, located over the turquoise lagoon and dotted along the beaches of two islands – Play and Chill, which are connected by a bridge. The laid-back resort offers an abundance of space and privacy and a multitude of experiences tailored to adventurous honeymooners, active couples, and style-savvy families.
Enjoy a cup of Joe in high terrain
Chiriqui Highlands, Panama
Panama suggests those holidaying in the country have a cup of Joe in some of its higher terrain and learn how that coffee came to be at the same time.
The country is expanding its tourist experiences by having vacationers visit coffee farms throughout the Chiriquí Highlands. The region is best known for producing Geisha Coffee, the “world’s most valuable coffee and harvested by the Ngäbe and the Buglé indigenous communities,” tourism authorities say.
The area offers a range of experiences from tours, coffee tastings and ziplining at iconic family farms, to hiking the Baru Volcano, one of the only places in the world where people can see both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea at the same time. They can also go birdwatching in the mountain region and enjoy its gastronomy.
The farms being promoted to tourists are part of the country’s Coffee Circuit, which is currently being developed by The Tourism Authority of Panama and the Center for Competitiveness of the Western Region to enhance the region’s economic activity and raise awareness of its extraordinary biodiversity. The initiative hopes to include up to 42 farms upon completion that will familiarize tourists with the likes of the cultivation of coffee beans and other steps needed to produce coffee.
All types of travelers, from families to nature lovers and adventurers, are welcomed to explore the coffee farms that are located in three main regions of the Chiriquí Highlands: Tierras Altas which includes Volcan, Bambito, and Cerro Punta; as well as Renacimiento and Boquete.
Fifteen coffee farms are now participating.
While coffee roots run deep in the Highlands in the Chiriquí Province, the area is also known as the land of flowers: place where mountaineers, bird watchers, and travelers passionate about indigenous culture and natural attractions can partake in numerous experiences from Panama’s three Heritage Routes: Green (unique biodiversity), Blue (ocean wonders), and Cultural. Visitors can explore La Amistad International Park that has more than 600 bird species, visit the Ngäbe and the Buglé people, two of Panama’s seven indigenous communities, or hike the highest peak in Panama, the Baru Volcano.
