Category Archives: ecotourism

Sattva Land Eco-Resort Offers GetAway Wellness-Focused Vacation in the Belizean Jungle

Nestled on 20 acres in Belize’s Mayan jungle, Sattva provides a tranquil space to reconnect to nature and establish a deeper connection to the self and the collective.

Belize – You come to Sattva Land eco-resort in the heart of the Mayan jungle in Belize when you need to reset, experience the healing power of nature.

The multi-generational family-owned retreat property is renowned for its warm welcome, friendly vibe, wellness amenities, and a setting that lets nature work her healing magic on guests.

“One of the most fundamental experiences we seek out as humans is connection. Whether it’s connection to other humans, the environment, spirituality, or our deeper selves, connecting and weaving our story into the larger tapestry of life often results in profound feelings of peace and wellbeing,” said Sam Combs, general manager and a lead facilitator at Sattva.

Nestled on 20 acres in the jungle, retreats at Sattva Land offer transformational programming along with spa treatments, jungle hikes, meditative garden walks, dips in the natural swimming pool and healing, plant-based cuisine.

With an enviable location immersed in bio-diverse forest and near the coral reefs the Belize coast is known for, Sattva Land offers a wide range of local excursions to waterfalls, caves, Mayan Temples and the Placencia beach. On-property guests can add to their retreat with additional programming from yoga and sound healing to chocolate tasting and a tour of the Sattva’s Land Project.

Accommodations at Sattva are first and foremost eco-friendly with a nod to creature comforts. Guests can choose from everything from a jungle castle to cabins, garden homes and modern suites overlooking a bubbling creek. Unlike many wellness-focused resorts, Sattva caters to individuals, couples and families. The natural setting coupled with an array of family-friendly activities make the resort perfect for multi-generational getaways.

Sattva offers two ongoing retreats. The Threshold is a personal retreat immersion designed specifically for your unique needs and wants. The Entwined retreat is for couples looking to relax, reconnect and grow together.

“As an off-grid, rainforest retreat center and community, Sattva creates a sacred space for people to feel held and supported while they make new connections, grow past their perceived comfort zones, and onboard new mindsets,” said Combs.

Founded in 2014 by members of the Garofalo Family, Sattva has evolved to become one of Belize’s top retreat centers. Nestled on 20 acres in Belize’s Mayan jungle, Sattva provides a tranquil space to reconnect to nature and establish a deeper connection to the self and the collective. At Sattva you’ll find a setting devoted to mindfulness, cultural integrity, diversity and connection to the land, people and the self

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New Darwin Galapagos + Amazon + Yacht Adventure

An adventurous 11-day journey combines two of Ecuador’s most iconic and wildlife-rich regions, the incredible Galapagos Islands and Amazon Rainforest. Guests will explore Isabela and Santa Cruz islands and take a yacht to other nearby islands. Starting in the highlands of Isabela, guests will explore some of the island’s most fascinating areas, including the Charles Darwin Research Station © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

(Quito, Ecuador) — This adventurous 11-day journey combines two of Ecuador’s most iconic and wildlife-rich regions, the incredible Galapagos Islands and Amazon Rainforest. Guests will explore Isabela and Santa Cruz islands and take a yacht to other nearby islands. Scalesia Galapagos Lodge and Finch Bay Hotel will provide a comfortable base for this guided Galapagos Islands tour. Starting in the highlands of Isabela, guests will explore some of the island’s most fascinating areas, including the Giant Tortoise Reserve and Charles Darwin Research Station. Guests will then visit Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest, and from the comfortable Sacha Lodge, head into the jungle on expertly guided tours to discover colorful birds, fascinating reptiles, many species different monkeys, and an array of other wildlife. The Darwin & Orellana Discovery Tour starts at $6,915 per person double.

The tour includes:
3-nights at Scalesia Lodge – Isabela Island
3-nights at Finch Bay Hotel – Santa Cruz Island
1-night at Quito Airport Hotel – Quito
3-nights at Sacha Lodge – Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest

Scalesia Galapagos Lodge is situated in the highlands of Isabela Island on the slopes of a volcano, about 20 minutes from the town of Puerto Villamil. The modern, luxurious, safari-style tent resort is in the middle of a 40-acre forest with a spectacular view of the coast of Isabela Island, the Pacific Ocean, and other Islands of Galapagos dotting the horizon.

The award-winning Finch Bay Hotel enjoys a peaceful and magical beachfront location in Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island. The hotel makes the ideal base for exploring the natural diversity and attractions of the island – including Tortuga Bay beach – and for taking day trips to nearby islands, aboard its own, specialized yacht. The hotel also implements best practices in sustainable tourism.
Located in a 5,000-acre private ecological reserve, Sacha Lodge provides a safe and comfortable base to experience the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. Highlights include exploring the forest on rainforest walks, canoeing the lake, the Sacha Lodge butterfly house, visiting the Yasuni parrot lick, and walking high in the trees on the 940-foot (275-meter) long canopy walkway. As this is a private reserve, the wildlife is well protected. It’s not uncommon for different monkeys to even play on the boardwalk or cross through the canopy over your comfortable accommodations.

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Vacations Offering Unexpected Ways to Explore Nature’s Top Lava Volcanic Destinations

These vacations offer unexpected ways to explore nature’s top magma shows 

Iceland is one of the most volcanically active areas on the planet. Volcanic activity is a fact of life in Iceland where people have learned to live with the drawbacks and the advantages. After all, that constant geological activity is the reason the island has so much natural beauty to see from geothermal pools to incredible mountains. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Iceland  

Iceland is one of the most volcanically active areas on the planet, with 130 volcanoes. Last week the fifth eruption since December at the Sundhnjukar mountain ridge sent lava 150 feet into the air, but locals and tourists stayed safe while flights continued to operate. Volcanic activity is a fact of life in Iceland, where people have learned to live with the drawbacks and the advantages. After all, that constant geological activity is the reason the island has so much natural beauty to see from geothermal pools to incredible mountains. 

The unexpected way to observe Iceland’s volcanoesby sea. 

The land of fire and ice and the midnight sun is an island, so the best way to experience it is to sail around it. Small ship line Windstar Cruises circumnavigates Iceland on a 7-dayAround Iceland cruise with just 312 guests on board, visiting five towns on the island in addition to the capital of Reykjavik. These small towns are easy to explore and have opportunities for scenic outdoor adventures (like treks to waterfalls). And the bonus of being on a ship if/when a volcano erupts nearby? You sail somewhere else. 

Mount Etna in Sicily 

Mount Etna is one of Europe’s most active volcanoes, recently making headlines for puffing volcanic vortex rings into the sky. You can hike up the slopes of this volcano, or observe it easily from a distance, Aperol spritz in hand.  

The unexpected way to view Mount Etna: on a bike. 

VBT offers Sicilian guided biking tours, with additional highlights like biking past volcanic coastlines, staying in an 18th century palace, and joining Sicilian truffle hunters on a search for the culinary prize

Kīlauea and Mauna Loa in Hawaii 

Kīlauea and Mauna Loa are two of the world’s most active volcanoes and are located in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park on the island of Hawaii (aka the Big Island). There are 150 miles of trails within the park through craters and lava tubes, making up-close volcanic exploration possible. 

The unexpected way to engage with Hawaii’s volcanoes: on a multi-island itinerary. 

Holiday Vacations offers a Hawaii Four Island Holiday that spends time in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park but also includes inter-island flights and accommodations on Kauai, Maui, and Oahu, with their own volcanoes to explore as well. 

Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming 

Yellowstone is a volcano, and the magma chamber under the park influences its natural features including all those famous geysers and hot springs. In fact, the park has the world’s largest collection of hydrothermal features with more than 500 geysers – that’s half of the world’s total.

The unexpected way to experience it: by snowcoach. 

Winter is the park’s quietest season, but it’s one of the best times to visit. The park’s interior is accessible only by commercial over-snow transportation, and Yellowstone’s snowcoaches are essentially the ultimate 21st-century (heated) sleigh. Some of the best geyser viewing and photography opportunities arise in the dead of winter, when the snow-white landscape provides the contrast that makes thermal wonders appear even more dramatic. Stay at one of the resort’s wintertime lodges to fully experience the winter magic. 

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GeoCultura Unveils Cultural, Geological Summer Tours in Ireland

GeoCultura’s summer tours to Ireland experience the Wild Atlantic Way, exploring the geological and historical stories while focusing on the Dingle Peninsula and the iconic Ring of Kerry.

GeoCultura, a leading provider of immersive travel experiences, introduces two new captivating tours for summer 2024 that promise a deep dive into Ireland’s fascinating landscapes, blending discovery and immersion led by local experts in geology, history, and culture.

South-West Ireland – Dingle Peninsula and Ring of Kerry Tour, July 9-14: Embark on a six-day exploration along the Wild Atlantic Way of southwest Ireland, beginning in Cork and venturing through the Dingle and Iveragh Peninsulas. This journey unveils the rich tapestry of Irish history, folklore, and deep-time geological features shaping the present landscape.

Highlights:

Experience the Wild Atlantic Way, exploring the southwest coast’s coastal gems and cultural offerings.

Immerse in the landscapes, deep-time history, and folklore of southwest Ireland.

Unravel geological and historical stories while focusing on the Dingle Peninsula and the iconic Ring of Kerry.

Expert guides lead participants to dramatic coastlines, mountains, castles, and harbors, revealing the layers of history embedded in the rocks and landscapes.

Enjoy authentic encounters with traditional Ireland, from meeting native speakers to experiencing folk music and savoring top Irish cuisine.

Stay in charming country retreats and coastal hotels, offering comfort and character.

The tour commences at Ballymaloe House, outside Cork, concluding in the center of Cork (or Cork airport).

Overview: Embark on a six-day, five-night journey through southwest Ireland’s history and culture, starting in Cork and uncovering natural wonders in the Dingle and Iveragh Peninsulas. Gain new insights from expert tour leaders, exploring the geological mysteries behind Ireland’s landmarks.

Discover how natural and human forces have shaped the Irish landscape, visiting castles, cliffs, towns, and towers. Take to the sea for a new perspective on the coastline and hear tales of resilience on remote islands. Learn how southwest Ireland has evolved from deep time to its historical traditions, native language, and music.

See Ireland’s most spectacular sights, including the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Blasket Islands, and Inch Beach. Stay in highly-rated accommodations, including a country house and a hilltop manor in County Kerry.

Pricing: $4,125 pp for the five-night tour, Single Supplement for solo travelers $530 

https://www.geoculturaworld.com/tours/37-south-west-ireland-dingle-peninsula-and-ring-of-kerry-tour

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way: Galway Bay to Cliffs of Moher, September 1-7, 2024: The seven-day journey from Dublin to County Clare, explore the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark. Stay at the Wild Honey Inn, nestled in the Burren Geopark, and discover the natural wonders that define this iconic region.

Highlights:

Explore Ireland’s deep-time origins with expert guides behind West Ireland’s famous landmarks.

Delve into the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, exploring its highest point and intricate cave systems.

Uncover human stories as you sail to an Iron Age fort on the Aran Islands and recognize landscapes featured in Hollywood movies.

End each day at The Wild Honey Inn with comfortable accommodations and delicious meals using locally sourced produce.

Enjoy Irish hospitality with pub visits and music sessions.

Overview: Embark on a seven-day, six-night tour starting in Dublin and venturing to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher. Relax at the Wild Honey Inn, a Michelin-starred haven within the Burren Geopark, and explore the surrounding wonders.

Expert Tour Leaders and local guides explain the region’s unique rocky landscape, its karst ‘pavements,’ and intriguing cave systems. Visit landmarks such as Dun Aonghasa, Poulnabrone Dolmen, and the towering Cliffs of Moher. Experience early medieval forts, hidden churches, coastal villages, and market towns set to the soundtrack of traditional Irish music.

Price: $4,500 for the seven-day, six-night tour. Single supplement for solo travelers:  $745.  

https://www.geoculturaworld.com/tours/35-ireland-s-wild-atlantic-way-galway-bay-to-cliffs-of-moher

GeoCultura’s 2024 tours offer an immersive experience led by knowledgeable guides, providing a voyage of understanding, connection, and appreciation. Tours range from three to seven days and can be fully guided, partially guided, or self-guided for those seeking a more personalized experience.

GeoCultura’s small group tours range from two to nine days, blending earth science with local history and regional guides to explore the world’s most important landscapes. The tours aim to immerse participants in local culture, cuisine, and natural wonders. 

More information at www.geoculturaworld.com, phone 713 400 6326.

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Slovenia Promotes Sustainable, Responsible Tourism Experiences

The jaw-dropping Postojna Cave, the most extensive cave system in Slovenia, is a series of caverns, halls and passages some 24 km long and two million years old. Slovenia holds the distinction of being the world’s first country to be entirely declared a Green Destination of the World. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

NEW YORK, NY –In Slovenia, the diversity of natural landscapes stretches across the country, from the alpine peaks towering at 2,000 meters and the Adriatic Sea coastline, to the richness of thermal waters in the Pannonian region and the sunny hillsides where vineyards thrive.

One-third of Slovenian territory belongs to a protected area, with forest cover reaching nearly 60%. The rich biodiversity includes over 22,000 species of animals and plants, along with more than 13,000 underground karst caves.

Slovenia holds the distinction of being the world’s first country to be entirely declared a Green Destination of the World. It is also the third most forested country in Europe and one of the countries with the most water in the world, boasting 27,000 kilometers of waterways, around 300 waterfalls, and numerous natural lakes and crystal-clear streams.

Mindful of the responsibility for their natural and cultural heritage, Slovenians strive to preserve their environment through sustainable projects, educational policies, as well as by promoting sustainable tourism experiences.

Slovenia’s longstanding commitment to sustainable tourism positions the country as a significant player in the United Nations’ designation of 2027 as the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism, potentially serving as a model for global destinations.

Responsible Holidays with Green providers: The Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism, the seal that endorses commitment to the environment

The Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism was one of the first projects in Europe to promote sustainability in tourism and serves as a model for many other countries. The European Travel Commission (ETC) has adopted the Green Scheme as a basis for developing sustainable guidelines for European destinations.

The Slovenia Green label awarded environmentally conscious entities including tourist agencies, natural parks, accommodations, travel agencies, restaurants, and beaches. Divided into five distinct categories, the green label boasts a membership of over 300 establishments. Visitors to Slovenia can place their trust in providers bearing the SLOVENIA GREEN label, as they undergo rigorous international assessments ensuring both quality and sustainability.

Celebrating 100 years of preserving Triglav National Park

Nestled within the Julian Alps, Triglav National Park celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2024, marking a century of conservation efforts since its establishment in 1924. The centennial celebrations highlight the importance of protection for ensuring the existence of natural and cultural assets for future generations. The slogan “Protection Ensures Existence” underscores the ongoing need to balance conservation with development while preserving the park’s pristine beauty and biodiversity.

Invaluable UNESCO’s World Heritage Treasures in Slovenia

The list of the World’s Natural and Cultural Heritage comprises two natural and three cultural sites. Additionally, Slovenia boasts seven distinct features of intangible cultural heritage included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, such as beekeeping, the breeding of elegant white Lipizzan horses, and the art of dry-stone walling, to name just a few.

Slovenia’s presence extends to other UNESCO programs as well, including the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, the Global Network of Geoparks, and the UNESCO List of Written Cultural Heritage, known as the Memory of the World.

Among the two UNESCO natural sites, Slovenia boasts the enigmatic Škocjan Caves, home to the largest subterranean canyon in Europe, towering at 146 meters high, and the primal beech forests of the Carpathian Mountains and other European regions, which represent the most preserved remnants of beech forests.

While Idrija preserves the world heritage associated with mercury extraction, Slovenia safeguards the protected world heritage of prehistoric pile dwellings around the Alps, with around 40 locations discovered in the Ljubljana Marshes. A significant discovery is a 5,200-year-old wheel, considered the oldest wooden wheel with an axle globally.

In Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, the works of architect Jože Plečnik have bestowed a distinctive visual identity upon the city. His architectural masterpieces, which grace the city’s skyline, have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

Green Mindset, Healthy Tourism and Gastronomic Fresh World-Class Cuisine

Slovenia promotes a healthy lifestyle by encouraging bicycle or train travel, self-care through connection with nature, and enjoyment of local, homemade, and authentic foods. Under the motto “from farm to table,” Slovenia stands out for its diverse range of fresh products and natural ingredients offered in world-class restaurants, local markets, and agritourism farms.

As part of its varied sustainable tourism offerings and connection with nature, visitors can enjoy activities such as biking among vineyards, hiking trails, kayaking on crystal-clear lakes, and more sophisticated experiences like going on a hike with an expert Alpinist to feed salt to the native Jezersko–Solčava sheep or outdoor gastronomic experiences such as picnics in nature or snacks at rural homesteads just to mention a few. 

For more information on Green Slovenia to celebrate Earth’s Day, follow this link.

Nestled in the heart of Europe, where the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Pannonian Plain and the Karst meet, Slovenia offers several year-round exciting experiences. This captivating country is deeply committed to sustainability and stands as a pioneer in sustainability and offers a tapestry of unique and unforgettable stories, which unfold either in pristine nature or in charming towns and include unforgettable outdoor adventures, spa pampering, getaways filled with rich culture, art and tradition, and last but not least, superb gastronomy crafted from local, fresh ingredients. Especially in recent years, Slovenia has risen in popularity among gourmands and foodies, also thanks to the prestigious Michelin Guide, which has solidified Slovenia’s global culinary presence. With an impressive number of 9 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one with three stars and another with two, along with seven one-star restaurants, Slovenia stands among the 146 countries with three-star recognition. Remarkably, only 8 of these restaurants are led by female chefs, and Ana Roš from Hiša Franko is among them.

See also:

BIKETOURS.COM 8-DAY GUIDED RIDE THROUGH SLOVENIA OFFERS SURPRISES

CAVES, CASTLE AMONG ASTONISHING SIGHTS VISITED ON GUIDED BIKE TOUR OF SLOVENIA

LIPIZANER HORSES, UNESCO NATURAL MONUMENT, MEDIEVAL CITY OF PIRAN COMPLETE THE GEMS OF 8-DAY ‘EMERALD’ BIKETOUR OF SLOVENIA

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Explore the Cosmos at Death Valley Dark Sky Festival, March 1-3

Join scientists and park rangers to learn about the cosmos and how Death Valley National Park has been used as an analog for the exploration of distant worlds during the Death Valley Dark Sky Festival March 1-3, 2024. (Photo courtesy: Xanterra Travel Collection) 

There’s no better place to explore the wonders of space than from one of the darkest locations in the United States. Join scientists and park rangers to learn about the cosmos and how Death Valley National Park has been used as an analog for the exploration of distant worlds during the Death Valley Dark Sky Festival March 1-3, 2024.  
 
Death Valley National Park is one of only eight (8) designated “gold tier” International Dark Sky Parks in the country where stargazers can see the Milky Way with the naked eye (something that’s not possible from most people’s homes due to light pollution). The National Park Service, alongside the Oasis at Death Valley, has taken measures to greatly minimize light pollution in the area so no special telescopes are needed (though they are recommended for an otherworldly experience).
 
Accommodations and restaurants are extremely limited in the park. Not only does The Oasis at Death Valley offer two properties with modern luxury and family-friendly accommodations, but it’s also ideally positioned with clear nights the norm, a lack of settled land, and the exterior lights of the resort dim by design. Ideal for stargazing, yes, but also for travelers in search of astronomical sights – constellations, planets, deep-sky objects, celestial events like lunar eclipses and meteor showers, and even actual galaxies like the increasingly hard-to-spot Milky Way.
 
The Death Valley Dark Sky Festival is a collaboration between Death Valley National Park, non-profit Death Valley Natural History AssociationNASA‘s Goddard Space Flight Center, Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Ames Research Center, SETI Institute and California Institute of Technology. All Death Valley Dark Sky Festival programs are free and open to the public. Some of the programs are specifically targeted for families with children. For a full list of programs and lodging options visit the park’s website at nps.gov/deva.
 
Located 120 miles northwest of Las Vegas and 295 miles northeast of Los Angeles, The Oasis at Death Valley is distant enough from the major cities in the Southwest to provide unobstructed views of the night’s sky, yet close enough for city dwellers to escape for the weekend. Guests can reserve a private stargazing party to create the ultimate night sky experience. In addition, Furnace Creek Stables on property offers a moonlight tour which is a unique way to stargaze.

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12 Stellar Fall Adventures

Avoid the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage and reach Antarctica faster by booking an early season fly-and-cruise expedition through Adventure Life.

With cooler temperatures, colorful leaves, fewer crowds and, this year, a “ring of fire” eclipse, fall is a great time to travel. From desert hiking and biking to mountain, rainforest and island adventures and early Antarctica expeditions, here are 12 stellar trips this season.

  1. Utah Eclipse Trek: Backpack the Boulder Mail Trail through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in southern Utah with Wildland Trekking for an adventure among slickrock formations, ponderosa pine-covered plateaus and canyons with spring-fed creeks. A five-day departure in October will offer the opportunity to take in “ring of fire” views as an annular eclipse passes overhead. https://wildlandtrekking.com/trips/boulder-mail-trail/
  2. Early Season Antarctica: Avoid the turbulent waters of the Drake Passage and reach Antarctica faster by booking an early season fly-and-cruise expedition through Adventure Life. Begin the eight-day trip in Punta Arenas, Chile, then fly two hours to King George Island, board the Magellan Explorer and cruise among the icebergs, penguins, seals, and whales of the white continent. https://www.adventure-life.com/antarctica/cruises/13000/classic-antarctica-air-cruise
  3. Autumn in Austria’s Alps: With a long fall season thanks to its lower elevation, Best of the Alps destination Kitzbühel, Austria, is the perfect getaway for a hiking, biking and culinary getaway as the leaves change color. Hike among grassy slopes, mountain summits, lakes and waterfalls, ride the roads, flowing singletrack and easy e-bike tours, and savor the flavors of a traditional farmers’ market, award-winning restaurants and food festivals. https://www.bestofthealps.com/en/d/kitzbuhel/
  4. Death Valley Eclipse Bikepacking: Ride the heart of the Mojave Desert, from Death Valley National Park to Red Rock Canyon, during the Oct. 14th annular eclipse with Escape Adventures. On this five-day bikepacking tour, navigate the wide valley floor, sunbaked foothills and stacks of boulders, stopping to visit historic sites accessed by 1930s-era Civilian Conservation Corps roads. https://escapeadventures.com/tour/death-valley-and-red-rock-mountain-bike-tour/
  5. Amazon Autumn Adventure: Experience the astounding biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest during a stay at Ecuador’s Sacha Lodge. The 5,000-acre private ecological reserve surrounding the lodge is home to more than 600 bird species and other wildlife, providing guests an up-close opportunity to learn about the rainforest from naturalists and native Quechua guides. https://www.sachalodge.com/
  6. Piedmont Culinary + Hiking: The wine region of Piedmont could very well be the ultimate destination for casual hikers who are also food and wine lovers. Accommodations during your journey include a UNESCO site, a wine estate, and a boutique hotel in the countryside. In early October, it might still be harvest time for the nebbiolo grapes and the colors make the hills and vineyards look like they are painted! https://www.tourissimo.travel/piedmont-barolo-hiking
  7. Yellowstone Horseback Fly Fishing: Travel by horseback into Yellowstone National Park’s interior and cast for trout on seldom-fished streams guided by the experts at Flying Pig Adventures. Whether it’s for a few hours or a full day, a family or a group of friends, Flying Pig will handle all the details for a truly unique Yellowstone fishing excursion. https://www.flyingpigrafting.com/flyfishing-montana
  8. Cycle Across Japan: Ride & Seek Bicycle Adventures’ 22-day Samurai Tour travels through three distinct parts of Japan and immerses cyclists in the country’s spectacular landscape, culture and history. Explore the enchanting Noto Peninsula and the Japanese Alps, follow the road less traveled across the smallest of Japan’s main islands and ride around Mount Fuji to the shores of the Pacific Ocean. https://rideandseek.com/tour/samurai-shikoku-island-japan/
  9. National Parks by RV: National parks saw huge crowds over the summer, but fall is a great time to visit for less traffic and pleasant temperatures. Blacksford rents fully stocked Mercedes-Benz Sprinter overland adventure vehicles from Winnebago with all-inclusive pricing that provides unlimited miles, bedding, kitchen and bath supplies, Wi-Fi, a free annual pass to the national parks and 24-hour roadside assistance. https://www.blacksford.com/
  10. Jackson Hole Glamping: Wyoming’s Fireside Resort offers 25 luxuriously outfitted tiny house rental units designed by Wheelhaus just a short distance from Grand Teton National Park and the Jackson Hole ski slopes, making it the perfect place to stay for a fall getaway or winter ski trip. https://www.firesidejacksonhole.com/
  11. Fall Galapagos Adventure: Fall is one of the best times of year to visit Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands, particularly when it comes to wildlife and weather. The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel has joined forces with Scalesia Galapagos Lodge to offer a new weeklong program that includes day trips aboard the yacht Sea Lion, glamping in luxury tents on Isabela Island and visits to remote locations that highlight the incredible diversity of the archipelago. https://www.scalesialodge.com/
  12. Fall in Big Sky: A visit to Big Sky, Montana, and stay at The Wilson Hotel offers the opportunity for fall adventures in Yellowstone country. With elk bugling and pockets of aspen trees turning golden amid the green forest, hike and mountain bike the trails surrounding town, fish the Gallatin River or take one last tour of Yellowstone National Park’s natural wonders before roads close for the season. https://thewilsonhotel.com/

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Mendocino’s Luxury, All-Vegan Stanford Inn is True to Eco-Tourism Ideal

Stanford Inn; an eco-conscious, vegan, luxury retreat perched on a hill overlooking the Pacific in Mendocino, California, proves ideal for our mini-moon © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Set on a stunning hillside on the Mendocino, California, coast overlooking the ocean, the luxury, all-vegan Stanford Inn prides itself on being committed to the highest ideal of sustainability and eco-tourism, not only for its own operations, but in sharing its knowledge and passion and inculcating the mindset and the means in its guests.

“Eco-tourism isn’t just choosing an exotic, threatened natural environment for your next vacation,” the inn declares. “It also means traveling in a way that protects and respects your destination, and improves your own well-being as well as that of the local community and the whole planet.”

Towards this end:

  • On-site certified organic gardens supplies the resort’s whole plant-based Ravens Restaurant, nationally acclaimed for gourmet vegan cuisine that focuses on whole plants rather than ersatz meats, cheeses or processed substitutes.
  • The Inn offers cooking classes, from beginner up, as well as on-site classes in organic gardening and farming.
  • The Inn shares its knowledge, experience and passion through its Environmental Leadership Field School, where it promotes a sustainable mindset that begins with understanding soil, gardening, food production and preparation.
  • The Inn works to reduce its carbon footprint, has vigorous composting and recycling programs, bio-diesel fueled trucks and providing guests access to nine EV charging stations.
  • The Inn only uses sustainable lumber, paints, cleaning supplies and other materials for the frequent upgrades made to the property.

The Stanford Inn founders, Joan and Jeff Stanford, moved to Mendocino in 1980, say, “…we were changed by the creative and healing energies of the land which is situated between the vast Pacific Ocean and the vibrant Big River. Since then, we have worked to assure our guests have an opportunity to experience what we experience: a special place that enlivens and inspires. The energies we experience here nurtured us and we reciprocate by nurturing not only our guests, but the people who work here, the farm and gardens and the Mendocino community. We approach the inn as a small family farm. We treat our guests as we do our family.”

The Stanford Inn, 44850 Comptche Ukiah Road, Mendocino, CA 95460, 707-937-5615, 800-331-8884, [email protected], https://stanfordinn.com.

See also: MiniMoon at The Stanford Inn – A Lush Eco-Conscious Retreat in Mendocino on California Coast

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Tour Company Takes Adventurers to Peru’s Remote Amazon by Traditional Canoe

Amazon Canoe Challenge is taking adventurers on pre-planned and custom trips through the little explored and rugged parts of the Peruvian Amazon by traditional canoe.

A new Amazonian tourism offering in Peru is taking adventure lovers to remote parts of the Amazon by traditional canoe!

The company, Amazon Canoe Challenge, is taking travelers on pre-planned and custom trips through the little explored and rugged parts of the Peruvian Amazon. Options include:  

  • Ene-Tambo Expedition: Explore the River Ene and Tambo by traditional Pitotsi canoes over 6 days. This expedition takes guests through an area of Peru rarely visited, where they will find some of the most authentic experiences in Peru. They take travelers into the heart of Ashaninka territory in Junin, where they stay with Ashaninka communities and learn about their culture and traditions. Share stories over a bowl of Masato and stay in the heart of the Amazon Highlands. Over the next 5 days, travelers will explore the Ene river as they travel downstream toward the jungle town of Atalaya. Every day is different and each evening they will stay with a different community along the river. The area is remote so they will be setting up camp at each stop. Expect between 4 – 6 hours of paddling each day with a stop for lunch. Included is food and non alcoholic beverage, canoe, basic accommodations, local permits, camping equipment, safety equipment, experienced guide.
  • Custom bespoke itineraries through the most remove areas of Peru by canoe can also be created with the team.  
  • Amazon Canoe Challenge Race, a race over 250 km through the Amazon Rainforest by traditional canoe. The Amazon Canoe Challenge is a competition-style expedition that takes you through areas of the Amazon usually inaccessible to visitors, filled with a staggering diversity of wildlife. Competitors will learn about the culture of the Asháninka as they set camp each night with native communities along the riverside. 

Due to the remoteness of the areas they visit, facilities are limited on this trip. This is real adventure – you won’t find electricity, mobile reception or internet access on this expedition.

The Amazon Canoe Challenge works directly with the local communities in the Peruvian Amazon. They locally source supplies, equipment and services as much as possible, ensuring that the benefits go directly to the areas they visit.

More information:  [email protected],  +44 20 8144 4066,  +44 784 671 8313,  https://amazoncanoechallenge.com/.

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Exhibit of World Renowned Nature/Conservation Photographers Mittermeier & Nicklen on View at Greenwich CT Gallery

The works of Cristina Mittermeier and Paul Nicklen, two of the most world’s foremost nature photographers and conservation champions are featured in an exhibition and event series at the C. Parker Gallery in Greenwich, Connecticut.

The works of Cristina Mittermeier and Paul Nicklen, two of the most world’s foremost nature photographers and conservation champions are featured in an exhibition and event series at the C. Parker Gallery in Greenwich, Connecticut. Opening events are taking place the weekend of May 5.

The exhibition, Double Exposure: Two Photographers, One Mission featuring more than 30 large-scale photographs, is on view May 1 through June 26.

Presented in partnership with the Town of Greenwich Conservation Commission, the Greenwich Shellfish Commission, and the Greenwich Point Conservancy, this new exhibition features several works which have never been exhibited to the public at this size and scope and is curated by C. Parker Gallery’s proprietor, Tiffany Benincasa.  The Gallery is located at 409 Greenwich Ave.

“The C. Parker Gallery is thrilled to present the work of two of the most internationally acclaimed conservation photographers,” says Tiffany Benincasa, the Gallery’s curator and owner.

“Their photographs are included in some of the world’s most important private collections, and have been featured as iconic images by major national media including National Geographic and TIME Magazine. This is an incredible opportunity to witness the beauty of nature in an intimate and personal way, to share their important message, and join their mission advocating for greater conservation and environmental awareness.”

“These artists/conservation champions have created some of the most iconic wildlife images of our modern-day culture. They are internationally acclaimed for harnessing the majestic beauty of their images to inspire change on our planet, via their 12 million followers worldwide. Greenwich is thrilled to host their new exhibition and Opening Reception events at C. Parker Galleryon the weekend of May 5,” said Fred Camillo, the Town of Greenwich’s First Selectman. 

The Gallery is conveniently located near Manhattan, a 40-minute train ride from New York City (the train station in Greenwich is just steps away from the C. Parker Gallery

More details about the Opening Reception events featuring Mittermeier and Nicklen, will be updated at cparkergallery.com

Space is limited, RSVP required to [email protected]). Learn more about the artists: sealegacy.orghttps://paulnicklen.com and https://www.cristinamittermeier.com.

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