Sometimes you don't want a holiday, you want an experience. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Indigenous Tribes in Australia
Adventure Tours Australia offers a 10 day tour through Australia's indigenous cultural heritage, from ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr to the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre to sunrise at Uluru, or Ayres Rock. But that's not all on offer. A river cruise of the Mary River wetlands, bush camping, the World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park, swimming in plunge pools, hiking to Twin Falls, Nitmiluk National Park, a Telegraph Station and the oldest Pub in the Northern Territories, this trip has a little bit of everything set amid some of the most spectacular scenery to be found anywhere. More information at
http://www.adventuretours.com.au/northern-territory/darwin-to-alice-springs-package-10
The Northern Lights
One of nature's most spectacular events, the aurora are caused by the collision of energetic charged particles with atoms in the high altitude atmosphere. So far so scientific, but the ghostly green displays are truly unforgettable. Visible only in a small band around the North and South of the planet a packaged tour is highly recommended. Specialists will cover transport, information, provide equipment and supplies and take you to the very best spots which are often remote. 2013 represents the peak of the sun's cycle, solar maximum, and the conditions for aurora are the best for over ten years. It's the perfect time to see them. The Aurora Zone offer a range of trips to the Northern Lights, aurora borealis, including honeymoons, at
http://www.theaurorazone.com/holidays. The Southern Lights, aurora australis, are less well served by tour operators, but
http://www.antarcticabound.com/antarctica_holiday.asp is a possibility.
Volcanoes in Iceland
Descend deep into the magma chamber of a dormant volcano, hike over a truly volcanic landscape, or fly over a crater in a helicopter. Visit eruption sites at Katla, Eyjafjalljokull, the Westman Islands and Laki. Explore the Landmannalaugar thermal pools, walk across glaciers and mountains and take in the sights and sounds of Reykjavic. Find out more at
http://www.discover-the-world.co.uk/en/special-interest/volcano-hotline.html, who have a Volcano Hotline to keep you updated on live eruptions so you can time your visit perfectly.
Mountain Biking and Alpine Walking in Austria
There's nothing quite like the spectacle of the Alps, something every traveller should aim to see at least once. Headwater do a great cycling tour of the Austrian Lakes taking in Salzburg's palaces, castles and gardens, and organising local cuisine and accommodation. There are rest days, boat trips, watersports and mountain rail rides, and the scenery is constantly breathtaking. More information cab be found on their website:
http://www.headwater.com/holidays/cycling/austria/C10SZ.htm
For those looking to organise things for themselves, or go at their own pace, the Bella Austria site is a great place to stay, set in lush alpine pastures with great views. See
http://www.thomsonalfresco.co.uk/bellaaustria. From there you're perfectly situated to explore Austria's countryside, from mountains to pastures on foot on on a bike.
