Before the collapse of the Soviet Union and the crumbling of the Berlin Wall, a group of American boaters ventured into the wilds of Siberia and discovered Soviet citizens, using home-made rafts, launching themselves down torrents of whitewater that would give the boldest river rafters pause.  Late in the ’80s, a reconstituted group of the same American rafting enthusiasts returned to the Soviet Union to compete in the whitewater competitions that Soviet clubs organized.

Out of these encounters emerged the idea for a non-profit dubbed Project RAFT which stood for Russians and Americans for Teamwork.  The idea was to bring teams of Soviets together with teams of Americans for a semi-annual whitewater river rafting competition and environmental festival. It was fleshed out to include teams from any nation in the world capable of fielding a river rafting team of 6 to 7 individuals.

The first official Project RAFT gathering happened early in the spring of 1990 and was hosted by the Nantahala Outdoor Center.  Hundreds of Project RAFT participants, their devoted followers, NOC staff and interested observers converged on Bryson City, NC, for a week long event intended to bring people together and inspire peace.  Even though, by this time, the Soviet Union had splintered, there was still a need to show that there was no ill will between worldwide members of the boating community and that cooperation and face-to-face contact between our culture and theirs trumped all other means of diplomacy.

Project RAFT was also determined to set a standard for environmental  stewardship and use the whitewater games as a platform to instill an awareness that free-flowing rivers were still an endangered ’species’.  At Nantahala, teams were encouraged to bring samples of endangered free-flowing rivers from their country for a ceremony of the intermingling of waters.  The ceremony was an excellent way to call attention to rivers many of us had never known.

Project RAFT continued into the mid-90s.  The next event was in Costa Rica, the last one was held in Turkey.  The beauty of the concept was that it fostered a spirit of cooperation and camaraderie between teams from all over the world even as we were competing in the various competitions — slalom, grand slalom, river orienteering, river rescue, triathlons.

Evenings we shared common meals, bonfires and stories before retiring to our tents.  At least once during every competition/festival the hundreds of participants would rendezvous at the put-in of a selected river and we would randomly clamber into rafts and spend the next couple of hours sharing the river, if unable to share meaningful communication due to language barriers.

In any event, 2009 marks — approximately — the twentieth anniversary of a concept that, sadly, is not still taking place.  It was difficult and costly and a pain to put together, manage and facilitate, but, I suspect, the events continue to resonate with those who came to take part.  I know I have dozens of fond memories and quite a few humorous tales about the three events put on by Project RAFT that I and several other Orion river guides attended.  But those tales are for another blogging.

Himalayan Travel treks has started to provide river rafting services for our rafters in nepal. It was very nice way of getting joy playing with white water of river. Nepal has the best places and locations to get rafting.

we have following places for rafting destinations in nepal

• Kali Gandaki White Water River Rafting Nepal
• Dudh Kosi White Water River Rafting Nepal
• Tama Kosi White Water River Rafting Nepal
• Seti River White Water Rafting Nepal
• Bheri River White Water Rafting Nepal
• Arun River White Water Rafting Nepal
• Bhote Koshi White Water River Rafting Nepal
• Tamor White Water River Rafting Nepal
• Marsyandi White Water River Rafting Nepal
• Karnali White Water River Rafting Nepal
• Sunkoshi White Water River Rafting Nepal

if you need more details about our package please follow link www.himalayan-travel-treks.com

Steve Laboff, veteran river rafting guide who is, essentially and unofficially, my eyes and ears on the internet, sent this link to a harrowing video of a kayaker’s unscheduled swim on the East Fork of the South Fork of the Salmon in Idaho.  That is right.  The EAST fork of the SOUTH fork which means we are not even mentioning the MAIN fork, so you know this stretch of river is likely to have some serious gradient loss.

The raw footage of the heinous swim is compelling, but it is the salient and instructive commentary in the accompanying blog that inspires me to comment.

I am a poor swimmer who is averse to cold water.  I applaud the kayaker who tenaciously survived this swim.  I hope, if and when I find myself in a similar scenario, I will struggle with the same calm and tenacity.  He was cast into some extremely turbulent, relentless currents that never let up for the several minutes it takes this video to unfold.

The commentary, as I said, was on the mark.

1) The swimmer maintained his composure.

2) The rescuers and the swimmer did not waste time and energy trying to ‘rescue’ the gear (kayak and paddle).

3) And, in the end, the swimmer did not rely merely on his buddies to rescue him.

Over the years I have heard details about three ‘unscheduled’ swims that ended with fatalities.  Two involved kayakers and one involved a commercial paddler.  The kayaker on the suddenly swollen Illinois River failed to save himself because the river was in flood and, as it turns out, he was paddling with a torn gasket in his drysuit that he tried to rectify with a paddlejacket with a neoprene and Velcro neck seal.

The obvious lesson is not to go out on the river with a drysuit that has, effectively, become a ’sea anchor’.  They also might have opted to stay off the Illinois at rising levels.  The Illinois, a coastal river in southern Oregon, is prone to wild fluctuations, especially during the spring when this trip and incident took place, and will rise and fall quickly.

The fatal incident with the commercial rafter happened while swimming Boulder Drop Rapid on the Skykomish River.  His time in the water was brief, but he did have to negotiate some of the most turbulent sections of the rapid.  From the stories told later, it seemed he did not fight hard to swim out of the whitewater and, as a novice boater, it would be unlikely that he would have known enough to self-rescue.  A relative told the guide service that the victim was also ‘fatalistic’ and had a ‘premonition’ the day before his swim.  Definitely not positive factors when you enter a river’s currents with nothing but a personal flotation device, neoprene and your wits.

In the third accident, which unfolded on the Cascade River in the North Cascades, the kayaker made the fatal error, that the group in this video avoided, which was he tried to save his kayak as well.  Rescuers reported later that they had the victim on the end of a throw line but the weight, due to the swimmer holding on to his kayak, and the swiftness of the river was too much.

Every river incident can be instructive and can serve to remind those of us who pursue river running as a hobby or a business that training, knowledge and preparation are key ingredients to each trip’s success.

The nice thing about this particular incident is that the potential victim survived the ordeal, we can all learn something from it and, in the end, it will just be a good tale to retell around the campfire.

I took some trainee guides down the river last weekend and got a nasty surprise in “Big Surprise”. That right hand channel is turning into a nasty beast!!

A pitty ’cause it used to be such a cool run, that right hand channel.

For many years there was a tree-trunk stuck there and it was un-runable. But then we managed to cut the tree out with chain-saws when the river was closed off for a few days. And that right-hand channel proofed to be such a lekka run!

But we’ll have to go back to running the left line. Sad, but life goes on, regardless!!

 One can see the glimpse of  ancient wisdom and touch of Indian culture in many monuments, palaces, art  and craft of different states of India. To discover the beauty of Indian culture, visit India !!

Rafting Grades

Worldwide rafting grades are classified according to International Grading System & standards. Basically all the white water rapids are classified into 6 categories. Class I is considered to be the easiest and Class VI the toughest.  These grades showcase the challenge and strength each of them commands. The Grade –VI is sometimes lowered to Grade –V or V+ if it has been run a several times before. Tougher grades are often portaged meaning the boat has to be carried around the hazard.

A rapids grade depends on the depth of water and the speed. Some rapids are easy to cross at high speed whereas some are remain totally washed out due to heights.  During floods when the river is turbulent even the simplest rapid can be lethal. At these times the rapids can be hazardous.

Below is the classification of the grades

• Grade I: The rough patches are short and no special skills are required. No previous river rafting experience is required.

• Class 2: The maneuvering comes in here as there is a little amount of roughness in the water here.  You should know basic paddling.

• Class 3: The level of water gets better here. You can expect 3-5 feet drops but the real thing is yet to come. You do need to be a little more than just comfortable with paddling.

• Class 4: Here you can get the drift of actual rafting. Lots of white water, big waves, rocky terrains and a drop which is attention grabbing. Previous white water experience is helpful here.

• Class 5: This has everything from large rocky waves to hazardous rapids. Expect a massive drop and precise control. Previous white water experience is a must here.

• Class 6: This one has everything but also has some unseen dangers which give it the last classification. There are chances of you hurting yourself. This grade is dangerous you have to be an expert to do it.

Qualifications/requirements for each grade

If you are afraid of water you’d never be able to raft. But if you are a person with good health and are fearless to be in water then you can definitely give rafting a shot.  Rafting is a sport which can be learnt in a few hours. There are several adventure tourism companies which offer rafting tours and even train you.

If you are a beginner you should start of with Grade II or III trip. If paddleboat scares you, you can choose to take a boat with oars.  For the confident, healthy and adventurous people, a class IV river is great even if they have no prior rafting experience. You will get training in safety and paddling techniques. For al grades above VI you need prior experience.

Destinations for every grade

Grade I – The Indus

Grade II – The Indus, Uptshi Khalsi Run, Beas River

Grade III – Uptshi Khalsi Run, Spiktuk-Saspol Run, Zanskar River, Phey-Nimu route

Grade IV – Teesta River, Zanskar river, Phey-Nimu route

Grade V – Zanskar River

Grade VI – Brahmaputra River, Kali River

All these rafting grades and the destinations tell you that you will be spoilt for choice. As the level of rafting goes notches up and you start enjoying it more. Rafting is exciting and rafting is addictive. And you realize it once you take up more challenging rapids. The skill required to maneuver through gorges and the highs you get when you drop from a few feet is a feeling that cannot be forgotten. But as you proceed to higher grades the risks also double. You are more prone to damaging you limbs. But that is what rafting is all about. To push yourself and be safe even while you are surrounded by white water and big rapids.

WTM(World Travel Market) 2009 at London

Peak Adventure Tour is all set to enter into the arena of one of the world’s biggest summit, WTM 2009. Organized amidst in the hustle-bustle of London, the summit will commence from November 9th and will last till November 12th, 2009. The organizers believe that the platform will act as a mesmerizing tourism experience for national as well as international visitors.

WTM (World Travel Market) summit is a creative endeavor and is directed towards bringing together various leading tour operator hotels, airlines, technology and online travel services, all on the same platform. For the past few years, London has been a favorite destination for bringing such summits and organising such gatherings that primarily aims to target diverse nationalities and work into one common objective. Peak Adventure Tour (http://www.peakadventuretour.com/ ) is just one of the well-known names in the adventure tours and travels domain in India. The company has been an active member of such summits held in various destinations and this time will stage itself in London. Among various participants and industry leaders, the organization will be staged under India Tourism Pavilion SS4600 and with Stall No-25. During this event, the company aims to highlight its some of the key services like:

Special customize tours

1. Contracted rates for all the leading hotel chains and independent heritage hotels
2. Lucrative tour packages for corporate and special theme based packages such as excursion, cultural and heritage programs
3. Special event management services for business meetings, conferences and seminars
4. Attractive tour packages for safaris, eco-tourism and rural tourism are also available
5. A trained staff of travel advisors to answer visitors’ questions

Peak Adventure’s Upcoming Tour Packages

1. The company is all set to sway the world with its exciting range of tour packages such as:
2. Dayara Bugyal Winter Trek
3. Chopta Chandrashila Winter Trek
4. Snow Leopard Trail
5. Frozen River Trek

These tour packages are accompanied with other facilities like comfortable accommodation, site watching and many other value-added services.

The company ensures to offer best range of tour packages, that are designed keeping in mind the preferences as well as choices of people from different cultures, ages and backgrounds. Be it cultural or formal, all occasions can be easily managed at different places and desired venues. Apart from this, the adventure packages are offered at industry leading prices in order to make it compatible with diverse budgetary requirements.

The company is well known for its state-of-the-art facilities and effective link-ups that has been standing support for maintaining strong position amongst top-notch names in the relevant field. Recently designed packages offered by the company aspire to make trekking, glacier tours, camping, expedition, snow trekking a magnificent experience.

Peak Adventure Tour is planning to bring forth some more exciting offers other than bulleted in order to make the deal more lucrative. For bringing the objective a huge success, have requirements of following:

1. We are looking for outbound tour operator having business interest in different parts of the world other than India
2. We also looking for inbound tour operator from Europe, UK and South East Asia to market travel products in India

“We are geared up for the summit in London with a whole set of exciting packages under our belts. These adventure tour packages are designed to suit the tastes and preferences of domestic as well as foreign tourists. Apart from these packages, we will also be showcasing our new range of tour packages that are exclusively meant for people who have inclination towards trekking.” said the director, Peak Adventure Tours.

About Peak Adventure Tour

Peak Adventure Tour is a force to reckon with and is counted amongst the industry leaders. The company has proved its worth by offering a complete assortment of tour packages for excursion, trekking, wildlife safari, camping, glaciers tours and many more. Visit us at http://www.peakadventuretour.com/

Contact Details:

Contact Name: Arun Joshi
E-Mail- info@peakadventuretour.com
C 114 Sector 2
Noida UP
91- 120 – 4052615 – 99
http://www.peakadventuretour.com/

River rafting experience in Uttarakhand always gives an ever-lasting impression on the rafting enthusiasts who come here to experience the best of adventure sports. If you have an inbuilt zeal for water sports, then never miss the glorious strength and vitality of the Rivers in Uttarakhand. Most popular Rivers known for river rafting adventure sports are River Yamuna, River Alaknanda, River Bhagirathi, Bhilangana River, and River Mandakani.

http://www.uttarakhandtourntravels.com

Here’s a short video of the weekend river trip I did in mid-October:

River rafting can be truly adventures particularly if you select a place that is famous, gorgeous and provides you challenges in this sport.

Here is a list of some of the most thrilling places for river rafting in India:

Ladakh: One of the most famous rafting places for river rafting in India is Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir. The rafting trip can be effortlessly started off from the alternatives on the Indus River and most of its main tributaries. You can enjoy some of the expertise guided runs in white water on the Indus amidst Spituk and Saspol. However, if you want to go beyond Saspol River, you would face problems. You should take expert help if you are keen to go beyond Saspol River.

White Water River rafting on Zanskar River: This is the most challenging and thrilling river rafting alternative. However, it is most excellent suited for well planned expeditions. You should get ready for it several days ahead.

Ganges: This rafting experience would be complete of amazement and excitement for you. The river has about 12 rapids spread over 36kms long and most of which can be negotiated without problems.

Himachal Pradesh: You would just love to get river rafting expedition chances amidst rivers Shamshi and Aut on the Beas. The white water rapids are increase over the 20km stretch.

Teesta River: The River of Sikkim has been measured to be the most thrilling and challenging one for rafters. It lets you enjoy white water rapids with varied intensities at regular gaps.

Tips for a better river rafting experience:

1. Reservations: You may find white water rafting sites with walk-ins other than it would be actually better to make advance reservations to stay away from rush throughout peak season. Make a decision on the kind of challenges you would like to take and then book reservations online.
2. Extra time: Do not visit on the time chosen for river rafting. It would be wise to reach the region earlier than the actual allotted time especially if the region is new to you.
3. Meal: Focus on having a light meal earlier than you go for your journey.
4. Clothes: You should expect to get wet throughout the sport. The most excellent thing to wear would be a bathing suit under surfing shorts for women and swim trunks and a t-shirt for men.
5. Take or not to take: Confirm that you have a set of clean dry clothes and flip-flops for feet to change after the journey. A water proof disposable camera is a must. Do not ever take expensive items, sunglasses or your car keys with you.

On Saturday the Ash river produced the goods again! Henry, my “chief-in-charge” guide, hit “Breathilliser”, the very first rapid on the trip, in the teeth and send the 2 guys in the front flying! I love it! That’s what they pay good money for! The best excitement in South Africa!

Ever imagined your office in some snow-clad Himalayan mountain? Not really, right? This can be a reality for those who just love to live their life on the edge! Activities like mountaineering, rock climbing, skiing, river rafting, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, scuba diving, etc. can keep their adrenaline flowing.

Adventure sports are becoming quite a rage amongst youth today. Some pursue it as a hobby and some consider it as a lucrative career option. The tourism industry in India has flourished significantly in the past couple of years and a number of opportunities have opened up for youngsters seeking to make a career in adventure sports.

To begin with, you should be physically fit to opt for a career in any adventure sport. Then you can enroll yourself in an institute which conducts these courses. One of the best known institutes is The Directorate of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, Manali, which has been imparting training in various disciplines of adventure sports since 1961. It is a government-run institute that provides courses in various disciplines of mountaineering, skiing, and water sports. It provides training in rock climbing, rappelling, river crossing, trekking, camping, map reading, skiing, swimming etc. Other institutes offering similar courses are Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling; Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi; and Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering, Batote, J&K.

After finishing with this course, you can start a career as a guide with a travel agency. You can also find a job as a liaison officer with travel and tourism agencies. Other job options include working with various agencies like sports centers, athletic clubs, sports clubs, holiday resorts, excursion agencies, etc. Those who have enough experience in this field can also set up an Adventure Sports Center of their own where they can offer services and impart training in their area of specialization.

If you are bored of your regular nine to six job and have an immense love for the outdoors, then getting a diploma in mountaineering is the just right prospect to coalesce business with pleasure!

Saturday Aug 15

Traveling on holidays in Korea: Not recommended. What should have been a 2 hour trip to Danyang became a long 5 hour, stop-n-go, busted AC-sweaty trip. Once stuck in traffic, was told it was a ‘red day:’ Independence Day. Millions upon millions of South Koreans squished into a small country, all traveling on the same day is…ummm…an experience. Pushy ajumas, lines way out the bathroom door, knocking (banging) on the bathroom door as soon as you get inside…try to travel on non-red days.

Gosu Cave: AMAZING. Always loved secret hide aways, including caves, and this one was no exception. It was great, even with my broken toe. Half the time Hakwon carried me whenever their were stairs; it was good for me, hope it was good for him, lolz.

Birthday Party #5! : My friend in Bonghwa hooked me up with a lovely ice cream cake for my Birthday. Last time we hung out, we couldn’t have ice cream together b/c I was ‘on lent.’ So we made a promise to each other for ice cream next time around…so he fulfilled the promise, in style No flix, but there’s a video. I also said in a conversation I loved Japanese food, so on the way back to the house he ran out of the car and came back with a huge platter of sashimi.

Sunday August 16

Dentist : William is not only a great host, he’s also a talented dentist and hooked up my sister with a dental exam; lucky her–it had been 2 years since her sister in Cuba hooked it up.

Rafting: SO AWESOME! Everyone told me to stay back and rest b/c of my broken toe, but you know I’m much to adventurous for that. I would have been completely jealous had I not gone. The guide was good and pulled aside so I can plop in the water before he overturned the boat and everyone in it! Because of my injury, when we past bigger rapids, the guide had me sit in the middle. Since the front middle seat was lower, the rapid became a wave and completely covered my head. Hurt my toe a bit but rafting was definately worth a little pain (so long as the toe is not more broken!)

The Marvellous City of Rio de Janeiro

During the short existence of Brazil Diversity’s blog we have noticed that many of our readers are looking for detailed information about travelling in Rio de Janeiro. Therefore we decided to come up with this topic as soon as possible, even if there are plenty of other attractive places to visit in Brazil and it’s hard to choose in between them. With no doubt Rio de Janeiro is a marvellous city and has some of the most beautiful views in the world. It’s also a city of  huge contrats and probably due to this travelling to Rio always brings up some questions such as the security. When I first stepped the ground of Rio de Janeiro, I do had to admit that there is something unique and very special in marvellous city. The beauty of the city and the life style of the Cariocas (=native Rio born) left me speechless and fullfilled all my expectations. And it’s was just a start for a long term relations with Rio de Janeiro. So let’s get started!

There are two airports in Rio de Janeiro,  the centrally located airport of Santos Dumont serves only domestic flights and about 25 kilometers from the city you will find the airport of Galeão, serving both international and domestic flights. The simplest way to get to your accommodation is to book an arranged transfer in before hand or take a taxi. The yellow taxis of Rio de Janeiro are everywhere and they are reasonably priced. As anywhere in the world the first time tourist arriving to the international airport has a danger to become cheated by the taxi drivers. All the taxis do have a taxi meter, but the driver may not speak your language, so if you are unable to communicate in portuguese we do recommend you to contract a taxi with fixed price. This is easy! Even before you step out from the airport’s international area you will find a number of ladies calling for you and offering taxi service. Take an advantage of this and book a taxi with fixed price to your destination. The price depends on the neighborhood you are going to.

Copacabana and Sugar Loaf Mountain

Now that you are in the city you will start circulating the in neighborhoods of Rio de Janeiro. The most well know ones are without any doubt Copacabana and Ipanema. They both give a name not just for the beach, but for the surrounding neighborhood as well. This is also where most of the hotels are concentrated. If you are looking for a beach front hotel with seaview, but are not ready to pay astronomic prices your choice will most probably be located at Copacabana. At this world famous beach you will find a large number of hotels in all categories. Many of them are located right on the beach boulevard Avenida Atlantica, but less pricy hotels can be found few blocks from the seaside. Ipanema on the other hand is one of the fanciest neighborhoods of the city and the beach front has mostly residential buildings. Some highly priced hotels enjoy direct sea view, but also here you will find some larger number of options few blocks away from the beach boulevard.

Centro

Other interesting neighborhoods, when it comes to tourism are Leblon, an another fancy and most residential neightborhood located right next to Ipanema. Flamengo is a residential neighborhood for local middle class with large number of good quality budget hotels and easy access (10min) by metro to Copacabana . Santa Teresa, the bohemian up hill neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro with smaller boutique hotels and an excellent alternative choice thanks to its’ relaxed small town kind of atmospheare. The center of Rio de Janeiro is called “Centro” and it’s basically home for many offices and financial operations of the town. The hotel’s located in the center will not bring any special interest for an ordinary tourist, unless you are travelling on business. It’s recommendable to vist Centro and it’s attractions from Monday till Friday during the day time, when the numerous restaurants and shops are open and you will find many Cariocas in the streets of Centro. At night time and during the weekends Centro remains empty and can turn out to be unsafe for a traveller.

Rio’s location at the Tropic of Capricorn on souther hemispheare means that the winter months June, July and August, temperatures are lower (20-25 degrees) and on the summer time an average temperature is over 30 degrees, occassionaly reaching 40 celcius. Rainfall is highest during the summer time, but usually it means thunderstorms at the end of the day. What would be a good time to stay at Rio then? Some people stop only for two days, other stay two weeks. We would recommend something in between. You will certainly always find something to do in Rio de Janeiro, but nearby in the state there are other interesting places worth of visit like Angra dos Reis, Ilha Grande, Búzios and Arraial do Cabo. All these are beach destinations, ideal for swimming, snorkeling and diving with clearer waters than the capital itself. In the inland, you will find the mountainous areas with options for hiking, mountain biking, river rafting and horseback riding. We do recommend you to take a short escape out of the urban life of Rio and visit at least one of these beautiful areas located nearby. To get an idea take a look at our blog post about Ilha Grande.

One of the many favelas

Then the never ending question of safety. Is it really safe to walk in the streets of Rio de Janeiro? On my opinion it’s as safe as walking in any other large city. It’s good to remember that Rio de Janeiro has more than 6 million inhabitants and you should not be wandering around at any part of the city on your own. The favelas (=slums), mostly located up on the hills are not to be visited by yourself. If you want to see this part of Rio de Janeiro, take a tour. It’s an interesting way to find out how big part of the population lives and in addition to sightseeing the tour guide provides you lot of information concerning the social system of Brazil. Highly recommended! Also leave all you jewellery, extra money and other valuable articles at hotel any time going out. There is absolutely no need to carry them with you. At the night time take a taxi, like we mentioned earlier they are everywhere and they are cheap. If at any moment you end up in a dangerous situation, stay calm, hand over all your belongings and contact the Rio’s tourist police afterwards. As a general mnemonic a street with few people should be avoided.

Last but not least, now it’s time to enjoy Rio de Janeiro! Shortly we are going to publish an another blog post discussing about the attractions that Rio de Janeiro has to offer. In the meanwhile, have a walk on the beach and enjoy a glass of chilly caipiriha!

Check out also our blog posts Rio de Janeiro: What to do and see and Ilha Grande: A tropical island in the state of Rio de Janeiro

Sunset at Ipanema

Brazil Diversity recommends:

Accommodation:

• Rio Guesthouse - A small and stylish penthouse pousada right in the heart of Copacana.
• Mama Ruisa – A mansion style pousada located up hill in the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa.
• La Suite – Your hideaway desing guesthouse in Rio. Choose this option if you want to enjoy the spectacular views without leaving your pousada and don’t mind taking a taxi when willing to discover the attractions of the town.
• Astoria Palace – A reasonably priced new hotel right in front of the sea at Copacabana.
• Sofitel Copacabana – Beach front hotel, located just a short step from Ipanema allowing you to enjoy easily the attractions of both world famous beaches.
• Travelling with tight budget and looking for a hostel? Try out Bamboo Rio Hostel or Vila Carioca Hostel, both offering private rooms and dormotories.

The August 2009 Sunset Magazine has a great article by Peter Fish and photographed by Ian Shive on National Parks With Amazing Views: Grand Teton National Park, Yosemite National Park, Channel Islands National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Yellowstone National Park. It has an on-line link to an interactive page with lots of information on Glacier National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Olympic National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Zion National Park. Watch the video of Sunset editor-in-chief Katie Tamony interviewing Ken Burns, who is the filmmaker of “National Parks: America’s Best Idea” – PBS will show it on September 27. The other videos are also very good. There are suggestions, photos and a map where you click on the park for even more info on activities, accommodations, campgrounds, and “top wow spots” from Sunset. I found it quite awesome!

Communities On The Glenn Highway Scenic Byway@

Sutton Visitors Center

Email  suttonvisitors@hotmail.com

Web Site  http://visitalaska.wordpress.com

Mile Marker 65.1

Take a ride on the wild side, rafting on the Matanuska River with Madwater Rafting Company. 

  First get suited up in dry suits and instruction on the river before heading down the rapids.

You start on the Chickaloon River before heading down to the Matanuska River for your 4 hour journey.  

View wildlife moose, bald eagles, majestic mountains along one of the most exhilarating rides on the river.

Make your Reservation today!

Communities On The Glenn Highway Scenic Byway@

Sutton Visitors Center

Email  suttonvisitors@hotmail.com

Web Site  http://visitalaska.wordpress.com

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Come conquer Sungai Selangor

If you are in Malaysia, there are several world-class white-water rafting rivers to conquer. Peninsula Malaysia has several white-water rafting rivers and the one closest to Kuala Lumpur would be Sungai Selangor.

Located near the town of Kuala Kubu Bharu, this is a Grade 4 river, and only 1hr from Kuala Lumpur.

If you are visiting the country, and would like to try white-water rafting, CLICK HERE for an excellent white-water rafting package.

Communities On The Glenn Highway Scenic Byway@

Sutton Visitors Center http://visitalaska.wordpress.com

suttonvisitors@hotmail.com

Mile Marker 60.1 — 114.9 Sutton to Majestic Valley Lodge

Sutton to the Majestic Lodge, along the mighty Matanuska River, 54 miles of the most beautiful part of the Glenn Highway. Nestled between the Chugach and Talkeenta Mountain Ranges, Visit the Historic Alpine Park. Athabascan Culture Exhibits, native music, dancing and storytelling. Madwater River Rafting. Stop at Pinnacle Mt RV Park & Café’s petting zoo with over 100 animals. Gifts Stores, Antiques Shops, Native Art, gold panning, hiking, Geo-Caching Maps at the Sutton Visitors Center. The Matanuska Glacier, the only glacier accessible by car, Walk on A Glacier. Glacier Trekking & Ice climbing with Mica Guides, View wildlife, Dall sheep. Comfortable lodging, at Tundra Rose Guest Cottages, Grand View Café & RV Park , Sheep Mt. Lodge, Majestic Valley Wilderness Lodge & Matanuska Lodge,…So Much To Do !

· Mile 60.1

· Sutton Visitors Center

· Alpine Historical Park

· Jonesville Café & General Store

· Riverside Deli & Grocery

· Matanuska Madwater Rafting

· Mile 70

· Pinnacle Mt RV Park & Café

· Mile 77

· Chickaloon General Store

· Mile 99.5

· The Matanuska Lodge

· Mile 102

· Matanuska Glacier Park

· Mile 102.5

· Mica Guides — Trekking & Ice Climbing

· Mile 109.5

· Tundra Rose Guest Cottages

· Mile 109.7

· Grand View Café & RV Park

· Mile 113.5

· Sheep Mountain Lodge

· Mile 114.9

· Majestic Valley Wilderness Lodge

Mile Marker 60.1

Jonesville Café & General Store:  Open Daily year round, grocery, serving breakfast, lunch & dinner, espresso, beer on tap. Gifts, internet wireless, laundry, bathrooms w/ hot showers. ATM ,Ice, firewood, propane, easy access semi’s, trailers. 907 746-7461 or email : Rebecca_hobbs@msn.com for more information. Web site http://alaskaadventuresites.com/webpages/suttongeneralstore/

Mile Marker 60.1

Alpine Inn  Open 10AM to 1AM — Beer, Wine, Full Bar, pool tables, music, outdoor deck, group events, live music events, banquets. 907 745 – 9595

Mile Marker 61.6        

  Alpine Historical Park: 

Open 9AM to7PM Daily May 31—Sept. 15

Historical Buildings, Athabascan Winter Lodge Exhibit, Coal Mining Relics, Local Fossils, Gardens, Picnic Area, Tour Bus Access, Playground & Restrooms. Coal Miner’s Hall of Fame, 14 miles east of Palmer. One hour from Anchorage, groups events & weddings. 907 745-7000

Web Site www.alpinehistoricalpark.org

Email alpinehistoricalsociety@hotmail.com 

Sutton — Visitors Center: Located at the Alpine Historical Park

Open daily, Information, internet, brochures, Geo-Caching, hiking trails, camping, fishing, 4—wheel, cross country skiing maps. Reservations for local activities and lodging. Call 907 745-1716

Email suttonvisitors@hotmail.com 

Web Site http://visitalaska.wordpress.com

Riverside Deli & Grocery: Open Daily 7AM to 9PM Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, fully stocked grocery store, video rentals, gifts, ATM, Ice, Propane, Take out menu, Great Deli Sandwiches. Daily Specials. Call Ahead 907 746 — 3354

Mile Marker 65.1

Madwater Rafting: Mile 65.1 Open Daily Open [June - August]   Whitewater rafting or inflatable kayaking available on multiple trips daily.  Enjoy our scenic, splashy "Fun Run."  It’s a great day to be on the water with Matanuska Madwater! “Need a Good Paddling “ 1-888-MAD-RAFT

Web: www.matanuskamadwater.com.

Mile Marker 70

Pinnacle Mt RV Park & Café: Mile 70 26616 N. Glenn Hwy. Open Year round Breakfast all day lunch & Dinner specials daily & full menu. RV Hook-Ups, Gifts Shop, Antiques, largest antique tractor collection in Alaska. Bathrooms with hot showers, laundry, Petting Zoo with over 100 Animals. Caravans and Trucks welcome.

Call for reservations: 907 746-6531 Email: pinnaclepeak@mtaonline.net

Mile Marker 77

Chickaloon General Store: Near MP 77 on the Glenn Highway. The Chickaloon Historical Room shows photos of the Coal Mining community. Breathtaking views of King & Castle Mountain. Locally owned and operated. Local Alaskan gifts made of fur, fleece, leather, bone, antler, skulls, river rocks & gems. Laundry, showers, propane, gas and everything for your camping, hiking and BBQ needs. Stop in for a snack and a chat! Call 907 746-1801

Communities On The Glenn Highway Scenic Byway@

Sutton Visitors Center

Email  suttonvisitors@hotmail.com

Web Site  http://visitalaska.wordpress.com

907 745 –1716

Mile Marker 99.5

The Matanuska Lodge

The Matanuska Lodge: Mile 99.5 Four beautifully decorated rooms w/private baths, a 7 person deck located hot tub, a game room w/pool table & exercise equip.  Splendid views of on site private 40 acre lake with paddle boats and canoes, w/ The Matanuska Glacier at your doorstep.  Daily Breakfast & Hors d’oeuvres w/special Continental fare, Dinner by request. Big screen TV, Wireless Internet. Private bath robes, hairdryers, and lighted makeup mirrors. Radiant heat floors & ceiling fans, total blackout shades.  Wildlife that visits & a spotting scope for viewing Dahl sheep from a picnic area & fire pit. Near Mica Glacier Guides & Nova rafters. The Matanuska Lodge, a resort for all seasons, w/activities to enjoy any time of year. For The Discriminating Traveler.

34301 W. Glenn Hwy. 99674 Phone: 907 746-0378 

Web Site: www. Matanuska Lodge.com  

Email: nuska1@mac.com

Mile Marker 102

The Matanuska Glacier

Matanuska Glacier: Mile 102 “Walk on a Glacier” Guided Tours, Hiking. The average person takes about fifteen minutes to walk ”back in time to the ice age”.  Everyone has seen Glaciers from boats, aircraft, highways and in books and films.  Our tours give you a outstanding hands on experience & also ties other information together in a deeper understanding. Call 888 253-448

Email blueice@mtaonline.net

Mile Marker 102.5

Exposure Alaska & Mica Guides : Mile 102.5 " Discover glacier hiking, trekking and ice climbing on the blue ice of the Matanuska Glacier. Explore crevasses, pools, towering ice formations and hidden lakes. Just about anyone can enjoy glacier treks with our experienced guides.  No experience is necessary for any of our trips.  Whether you’re a first time visitor to a glacier or seeking an introduction to the vertical world of ice and mountaineering, we have an adventure for you! For Reservations : 907 351– 7587 800 956-6422

Email: info@micaguides.com

Web Site: www. micaguides.com

Mile Marker 109.5

Tundra Rose Guest Cottages

MP 109.5 Three quality guest cottages in a relaxing nature setting with unobstructed Matanuska glacier views, kitchenettes, coffee makers, gas fireplaces, private baths, private decks/ patios and cable TV. Located at the base of sheep mountain, Dahl sheep can be viewed on the surrounding mountains. Dining and Laundry services nearby.

Web Site www.tundrarosecabins.com  Email info@tundrarosecabins.com

907 745 5865  If calling long distance from within Alaska, call 1-800-315 5865 for reservation.

Mile Marker 109.7

Grand View RV Park & Café

MP 109.7 Is your dining and RV camping destination while entering or exiting Alaska. Relax in our log café, which features hearty home style meals and brick oven baked pizza. Full service pull-through RV sites have 30/50 amp electric with delicious spring water. The only RV park with commercial cable TV and WI-FI at every site! Spectacular panoramic mountain views, Dahl sheep and other wildlife viewing. 15 Minutes to the Matanuska glacier by car.

Web Site www.grandviewrv.com  Email info@grandviewrv.com

907 746 4480 summer phone

Mile Marker 113.5  

Sheep Mountain Lodge: Mile 113.5 11 Comfortable cabins w/private bath. Full service restaurant, hot tub & sauna. "Premium guest cabins with kitchens." Breathtaking views of the Matanuska River Valley. Diverse recreational trails for hiking & cross country skiing. Wildlife Viewing, easy access for RV’s & Buses.

Web Site www.sheepmountain.com    Email info@sheepmountain.com

Toll Free 877 645-5121

Mile Marker 114.9

Majestic Valley Wilderness Lodge: Mile 114.9

A Serene Wilderness amidst Alaska’s Chugach & Talkeenta Mountains. Comfortable Rooms and Cabins. Summer & Winter Activities. Convenient location to Denali & Wrangell St. Elias National Parks. Wildlife Viewing. Perfect for weddings, retreats & special events.

Web Site www.majesticvalleylodge.com  Email info@majesticvalleylodge.com

907 746-2930 Fax 907 746-2931

Communities On The Glenn Highway Scenic Byway@

Sutton Visitors Center

Email  suttonvisitors@hotmail.com

Web Site  http://visitalaska.wordpress.com

907 745 –1716

All rights reserved @Web Press Designs.  No photos or ad’s  can be reproduced without written permission from webpressdesigns@msn.com .

All photos property of Wendy Zake DBA Web Press Designs

here are some new blog posts about outdoor interlaken:

canyoning grimsel

canyoning switzerland

river rafting lütschine

I’m in France! Yay! Although, the home of cheese and nougat was probably not the wisest choice of holiday destination as I have cut back on fatty foods and sugars… I have to admit that I did have a bit of pistaccio flavoured nougat today but I am proud to say that I only had a titch little piece.

I did my yoga this morning, sadly without a Wii. I bet I didn’t keep the poses long enough, I’ll have to ask T. to time me tomorrow so I maintain each one for about 30-40 seconds, which is what Erica recommends. Yoga is a great way to start the day. My body is usually stiff as an ironing board when I wake up, so bending and stretching it in various ways extends and warms up my muscles, which feels great.

Serre Chevalier is a valley in the French Alps, pretty close to the Italian border. We had to drive 12 kilometres through Italy on the way here and my Mum didn’t enjoy it. Our last holiday to Italy left us with memories of awful pizza, dishonest restaurateurs and unreasonable siesta hours that caused painful hunger and three crying kids in the back seat of our red Seat Cordoba. The resort we are staying at is newly built and the little, charismatic huts that are spread across the hill side all have modern interior including a dish washer. This means that we can now argue about who is going to empty the dish washer as opposed to whose turn it is to wash up…
The only critisism I have of our hut is that the otherwise generously equipped kitchen didn’t include any mugs. That really freaked me out! I love drinking tea out of massive mugs and I couldn’t quite understand how a hut, which has more exotic cooking utensils than IKEA’s kitchen section, could be lacking this essential item, which has become so dear to me ever since I moved to the country of afternoon tea. Luckily, I was not alone in my panic. My Dad immediately announced that we will buy some cups tomorrow while my Mum arranged for us to drink our tea out of glasses. Crisis averted!

Serre Chevalier boasts rivers that are fantastic for river rafting. Cannot wait to go! Also, we are going hiking this week, which will be a great workout, replacing my usual Wii routine (although I doubt that it will be as much fun at catching virtual fish). There’s also the option of renting mountain bikes. This will certainly be interesting. Last time my family spend a summer week in France, my parents insisted we’d try riding out bikes UP the mountain. We fought gravity for about 15 minutes before reaching the conclusion that we should probably make use of the shuttle bus that would take us up to the top from where we could speed downwards instead. Much easier, much faster and much more fun!

With many different ways of pushing my body to its limits this week, I hope it is justifyable that I nibble some cheese for breakfast. Bon appetit!

 

The Arkansas River offers whitewater rafting for all levels.

I had been lucky. On five previous rafting trips through Brown’s Canyon on the Arkansas River, most other members of the group took tumbles into the frigid waters. But, throughout the years, I’d always been able to maintain position on the topside of the raft. 

I didn’t have that same sense of calm this year, the sixth annual trip on this particular 16-mile excursion guided by River Runners.

The author (middle left) with her fellow rafters.

The gorgeous June morning began at 7:30 a.m. when I awoke to rally the troops. We’d camped the night before in the River Runners campground just south of Buena Vista. One of the biggest perks is that the outfitter’s campground is only 100 feet or so from the area where we put into the river, called Fisherman’s Bridge, so campers can sleep in to the last possible minute and then stumble over without waiting for buses or shuttles.

Since we had used this company for the last few consecutive summers, we’d become familiar with some of its guides and had requested our favorites. My requirements were pretty basic, really. I wanted the guide I believed knew every inch of the river and could get me to the end without any mangling. Entertaining stories during downtime was also a plus. Kirby was the guide for me.

We had seven full rafts in our group this time. Six of them appeared to be the same size, while the seventh — the one Kirby stood next to — was strikingly smaller. I’d been rafting enough to know that when the water was as high and fast as it was this year, larger meant easier to control.

The river provides beautiful scenery as a backdrop.

We set afloat down the river and came to the first group of rapids, the Canyon Doors. They contain just enough white water to give you a taste of what’s ahead. Next came Pin Ball, one of my favorites. It offers the sensation of bouncing back and forth down the river in a similar manner to the age-old game.

By now the experience has allowed the opportunity to shut down the analytical brain and let one’s instincts take over. I looked around the group to see everyone exuding such strength, both physical and mental. People were no longer worried about work on Monday, but were aware only of this very moment and their immediate surroundings. The now-vibrant faces were all smiling, coming a long way from the sleepy, wary faces of this morning.

The next rapid, Zoom Flume, was one of the most important of the day. This is where a professional photographer stands on the banks shooting each raft, creating images available later for purchase. It is here that, while maneuvering through the white waters and trying to hear the guide’s instructions over the river’s roar, the repeat rafters know to also keep a tough “I’m in control” expression on their face. No adventure-seeker wants to be the amateur who gets snapped with his paddle far from the water with eyes closed while diving to the inner raft for safety, only to be permanently displayed in his fellow rafters’ scrapbooks for years to come.

The rafters work as a team even in-between rapids.

The guides began preparing us for the upcoming rapids, which are rated Class III and IV, depending on the water’s rage that day. Just the names give an indication of what’s to come: Big Drop, Staircase and Raft Ripper. Anything called Raft Ripper doesn’t leave much question as to what’s ahead. Sure enough, a few people took spontaneous dips, and the rafting guides who had already passed through raced to catch the mutinying paddles before they were lost downstream.

After brief break for recuperation, the group headed on to Seidel’s Suckhole. Kirby was being very specific on the game plan for tackling this one, making it clear we were in for a ride. As we came upon the scene, the water didn’t look as incredibly intimidating as I’d remembered. Suddenly, we began moving faster with the current as Kirby yelled instructions to us, which were only half-heard over the deafening roar.

We were all paddling our hearts out, fighting against nature with all our ability and not necessarily winning. The raft went headlong into a massive rapid, and the middle section, right below where I was sitting, felt as though it was folding in half. A tsunami-size wave (in my mind) washed over the boat and knocked me off balance. It was at this point I become one with nature and allowed it to take me gently into the river.

No, wait … maybe that’s not exactly how it happened.

All right, there was a wave that came at me (and it really was huge), but while I thought I was leaving with it for a moment, I regained my footing and began to pull my upper body back into the raft. It was at this point the friend on the left middle, a 6-foot, 200-pound former military man, was catapulted toward the center of the raft and his paddle, still firmly in his hands, thrust into my upper lip, causing my balance to once again be thrown off. As I was knocked toward the water, I reach for the guy sitting ahead of me, a dear friend who, in another circumstance, would surely have had great concern for my well-being. However, as I reached for his hand, his hand was reaching for his beloved hat, which has been washed overboard as well. I threw my hand on top of my own beloved hat and went into the river.

Almost as soon as I went under, I was popped back up downstream and floating in a calmer part. The hot rush of adrenaline had protected me against the shock of the icy water. While I could feel a warm hint of blood where my lip had been split, I knew I was just fine. I became aware of all the men in my boat yelling a confusing mix of instructions my way. I felt comfortable with my safety at this time but could hear the panic in their voices, which made sense, considering my big brother, husband and father were in the raft. Who would want to explain to Mom how their little sister/wife/daughter was lost downstream on a sunny afternoon in the Rockies?

I was able to single out Kirby’s instructions and proceed to the raft, swimming with one hand still on that hat, which was now a little misshapen but still functional. As they pulled me in, the color drained from their faces as they saw the blood on mine. After a quick rinse and the assurance that it was just a lightly split lip, we proceeded down the river.

My sense of calm had now returned, as I felt I had at last paid my long-awaited dues. We neared the final rapid of the day, Twin Falls. In past years as we approached the falls my heart had still been racing with eager excitement of one last challenge. This time, while still enthusiastic, I knew I’d already faced my big challenge of the day. Sure enough, it seemed a bit mild compared to my last little thrill ride.

We arrived at Stone Bridge, the 16-mile point, which marked the end of the trip. The seven rafts were lined up at the bank and we pulled ourselves onto land with sore muscles, smiling faces, a few minor battle scars and a satisfied sense of accomplishment.

For more information

River Runners

www.riverrunnersltd.com

Colorado River Outfitters’ Association

www.croa.org