adventure tourism news articles

Surge in Adventure Tourism: Four Big Trends in 2024

Jesse Chase-Lubitz , Skift

April 17th, 2024 at 12:00 PM EDT

New data shows that experiences are the leading factor when choosing a destination.

Jesse Chase-Lubitz

The latest consumer spending data from GetYourGuide reveals a surge in demand for unique travel experiences and activities that align with personal passions.

The report analyzes booking data from millions of travelers and highlights a significant shift in travel priorities. Here are the key takeaways:

Experiences Rule

Travelers are prioritizing experiences over traditional sightseeing. Nearly all travelers (90%) plan to spend the same or more on activities in 2024, and experiences are now the leading factor when choosing a destination (reported by 98% of travelers). 

Passion Drives Destinations

The hottest travel destinations are no longer just about iconic landmarks. Cities like Fajardo, Puerto Rico (up 419% in bookings by American travelers) and Hoi An, Vietnam (up 284% globally) are experiencing a boom, likely due to their unique cultural offerings and adventure opportunities.

Globally Inspired

Travelers are venturing beyond the usual suspects. This year’s top trending tours include the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, kayaking through El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico, and even a hot air balloon ride over Interlaken, Switzerland.

The Rise of the Explorer  

GetYourGuide identifies a new breed of traveler – the “Explorer” – who spends more on experiences, takes longer trips, and travels more frequently. These high-value vacationers are fueling the experience economy.

Get Skift Research

Skift Research products provide deep analysis, data, and expert research on the companies and trends that are shaping the future of travel.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: getyourguide , tourism , Travel Experiences , Travel Trends

Photo credit: GetYourGuide Walking Tour in London. Source: GetYourGuide

Adventure Travel

Apr 24, 2024 • 11 min read

We’ve selected 11 gardens around the world that offer beauty, serenity, a connection with nature and a sense of place.

Apr 23, 2024 • 9 min read

Utah is made for hikers. Strike out into its big wilderness and you’ll be floored by incredible diversity of the environs.

Apr 22, 2024 • 5 min read

As crowded national parks push people farther into the wilderness, keep these sustainable practices in mind.

Apr 22, 2024 • 13 min read

These 12 stupendous lodges, inns and hotels get you up close to the splendor of the USA’s best national parks.

Apr 22, 2024 • 6 min read

From challenging climbs to leisurely strolls along the beach, Oregon has a hiking trail for every ability level.

Apr 19, 2024 • 8 min read

In France’s far northwest, the Côte d’Opale offers glitz and glamor, spectacular natural beauty and gloriously golden sand beaches in spades.

Apr 18, 2024 • 7 min read

Behold the incredible majesty of the most beautiful waterfalls in the US.

Apr 16, 2024 • 13 min read

There are as few as 3900 tigers left in the wild. Here’s where and how to spot one of them.

Apr 16, 2024 • 7 min read

Explore the Old Town, go for a leisurely cycle with kids, or head further afield on a former train line with these top rides around Valencia.

Apr 15, 2024 • 12 min read

The best way to take in Canada’s awe-inspiring landscapes? On your own two feet. Consider starting with these 16 hiking trails all over the country.

Apr 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Take in the true scope of the continental USA by setting out in an RV or camper. Here are 10 states you’ll want to add to your itinerary.

Apr 14, 2024 • 6 min read

From the challenging Rubicon Trail to wheelchair-accessible paths, these are the best hiking routes in Lake Tahoe for views, scenery, and nature. 

Apr 14, 2024 • 7 min read

The Azores deliver spectacular hiking experiences with world-class views – strap on those boots and head out on one of our favorite routes.

Apr 13, 2024 • 8 min read

You haven’t really experienced Canada until you’ve visited at least one of its 50 national parks. Here are the top 10 must-see parks.

Apr 13, 2024 • 6 min read

With soft golden sand and clear, blue waters reflecting rugged peaks, Lake Tahoe’s beaches are astonishingly beautiful. These are the best ones.

Apr 11, 2024 • 8 min read

If you’re looking to experience Sedona on a budget, here are 12 free things to do.

Apr 10, 2024 • 6 min read

After you’ve had your fill of the strip, consider these day trips and multi-day road trips from Las Vegas for adventures in the desert.

With natural wonders, world-famous attractions and sunshine aplenty, Florida is perfect for road-tripping. Here are the best routes in the Sunshine State.

Apr 9, 2024 • 8 min read

In addition to Sedona’s incredible natural wonders, you can look forward to wine tastings, high-desert cuisine, moonlit hikes and more.

Apr 8, 2024 • 13 min read

The five fishing villages of the Cinque Terre are the Italian Riviera's most iconic highlights. Here's our guide to making the most of your trip there.

Apr 6, 2024 • 9 min read

The Evergreen State is a hiker's dream, with compelling landscapes wherever you turn. These are our 10 favorite hikes in Washington State.

Apr 5, 2024 • 8 min read

From its iconic Victorian pier to its independent shops and LGBTQIA-friendly pubs and bars, here are the best things to do in the seaside city of Brighton.

• About the ATTA
• Sustainability
• Our Initiatives
• Adventure Travel Conservation Fund
• Leadership & Team
• Internship Program
• Business Development
• Global Travel News
• Industry Spotlight
• Industry Voices
• Member News
• Regional News
• B2B Marketing
• Signature Events
• Market Activation
• Climate Action
• Storytelling
• B2C Marketing
• Event Calendar
• AdventureELEVATE Latin America 2024
• AdventureELEVATE Europe 2024
• AdventureELEVATE North America 2024
• AdventureWeek Finland 2024
• Climate Action Summit 2024
• AdventureWeek Okinawa 2024
• AdventureNEXT Fiji 2024
• AdventureConnect
• ATTA on the Road / Virtual
• Expert Nomination & Topic Suggestions
• Events Sustainability
• Sustainability Resource Center
• On-Demand / Webinars
• Inspiration
• Guide Standard
• Global Payment Resource
• Free Community Membership
• Become a Member
• ATTA Ambassadors
• Active Members
• Adventure Champions
• Community Books
• Case Studies

Shopping Cart

Shopping cart items.

From Ideas to Impact: How Innovation Is Fueling Climate Action

Latest atta news.

Applications Are Now Open for AdventureWeek Okinawa and AdventureNEXT Fiji

Adventure Travel Trade Association and Premier Travel Media Partner to Create Commemorative Publication

How the Adventure Travel Community Can Measure Collective Impact Through 1% for the Planet

Technologies Can Scale

Atta members news.

Las Torres Patagonia Signs the Glasgow Declaration

Host agency reviews launches its 2024 travel advisor survey, audley travel publishes its annual sustainability report, in search of the elusive snow leopard: expedition in western mongolia, captainbook.io sets sail for new horizons: expanding to italy, france, and croatia, intrepid named one of world's most innovative travel companies of 2024, commercial bear viewing association raises $300,000 for bear conservation through innovative conservation licence fee, wetravel and indigenous tourism collaborative of the americas launch new course, wilderness travel spotlights key conservation initiatives in recognition of world wildlife day, recent news, stay up to date with the latest news.

We care about the protection of your data. Read our Privacy Policy .

Articles on Adventure tourism

Displaying 1 - 20 of 21 articles.

Why monkeys attack people – a primate expert explains

Tracie McKinney , University of South Wales

Whakaari/White Island court case will change the level of accepted risk in NZ’s tourism industry

Freya Higgins-Desbiolles , University of South Australia and James Higham , Griffith University

Danger, prestige and authenticity draw thrill-seekers to adventure tourism

Scott Smith , University of South Carolina

Why is extreme ‘frontier travel’ booming despite the risks?

Anne Hardy , University of Tasmania ; Can Seng Ooi , University of Tasmania ; Hanne E F Nielsen , University of Tasmania , and Joseph M. Cheer , Western Sydney University

How English women wrote about their travels in the 19th century

Victoria Puchal Terol , Universidad Internacional de Valencia

From Chad’s elephants to Uganda’s shoebills: planning a trip to support tourism recovery in Africa

Alexander Richard Braczkowski , Griffith University and Duan Biggs , Griffith University

Fewer tourists meant less money for wildlife during the pandemic – but there’s an alternative

Joseph Hamm , University of Leeds

Wildlife tourism in southern Africa uses scarce water - we propose how much is enough

Kevin Mearns , University of South Africa

Swimming with whales: you must know the risks and when it’s best to keep your distance

Chantal Denise Pagel , Auckland University of Technology ; Mark Orams , Auckland University of Technology , and Michael Lueck , Auckland University of Technology

Banning trophy hunting can put wildlife at risk: a case study from Botswana

Peet Van Der Merwe , North-West University and Lelokwane Lockie Mokgalo , Botswana Accountancy College

COVID-19 , Africa’s conservation and trophy hunting dilemma

Duan Biggs , Griffith University ; Alexander Richard Braczkowski , Griffith University ; Alta De Vos , Rhodes University , and Hayley Clements , Stellenbosch University

Learning from disasters: Nepal copes with coronavirus pandemic 5 years after earthquake

Sara Shneiderman , University of British Columbia ; Jeevan Baniya , Tribhuvan University , and Philippe Le Billon , University of British Columbia

Everest is closed: enforced hiatus will help its environment recover but hit a million livelihoods

Yana Wengel , Hainan University

Québec snowmobile tragedy raises questions about adventure tourism

Alain A. Grenier , Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)

Call for clearer risk information for tourists following Whakaari/White Island tragedy

Freya Higgins-Desbiolles , University of South Australia and James Higham , University of Otago

Why were tourists allowed on White Island?

Michael Lueck , Auckland University of Technology

Five ways to be a responsible wildlife tourist

Everest: I interviewed people risking their lives in the ‘death zone’ during one of the deadliest seasons yet

Jase Wilson , Leeds Beckett University ; Dorina-Maria Buda , Leeds Beckett University , and Elisa Burrai , Leeds Beckett University

Everest: 11 climbers dead in 16 days – how should we deal with the bodies on the mountain?

Jonathan Westaway , University of Central Lancashire

Death on Everest: the boom in climbing tourism is dangerous and unsustainable

Yana Wengel , University of Strathclyde

Related Topics

• Coronavirus
• Global perspectives
• Mountaineering
• New Zealand stories
• Trophy hunting
• Wildlife conservation

Top contributors

Associate Professor in Tourism and Geography, Hainan University

Professor and Chair, Southwestern Environmental Science and Policy, Northern Arizona University

Professor of Tourism, Auckland University of Technology

Research Fellow at the Centre for Planetary Health and Resilient Conservation Group, Griffith University

Adjunct Senior Lecturer in Tourism Management/ Adjunct Associate Professor, University of South Australia

Professor of Tourism, Griffith University

Senior Lecturer in Biological Anthropology, University of South Wales

Professor, Geography Department and School of Public Policy & Global Affairs, University of British Columbia

Professeur, Sociologie du tourisme, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)

Teaching Faculty, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FoHSS), Tribhuvan University

Senior Researcher, African Wildlife Economy Institute and Centre for Sustainability Transitions, Stellenbosch University

Professor in Tourism, North-West University

Lecturer, Botswana Accountancy College

Professor in Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa

Doctoral student | Marine Wildlife Tourism Professional, Auckland University of Technology

• X (Twitter)
• Unfollow topic Follow topic

28 Adventures to Travel For, From Glacier Chasing in Greenland to Sand Surfing in the Sahara

By Caitlin Morton

As much as we love lounging on a faraway beach or revisiting our favorite city for the tenth time, sometimes our passports need some adventure travel—we’re talking about those once-in-a-lifetime trips that push us way outside our comfort zones. Adventure travel is a great way to see more of the world, while also testing your physical limits, and coming home with a lifetime's worth of stories to tell at parties.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most incredible outdoor adventures for intrepid travelers, ranging from climbing Machu Picchu to skydiving in Dubai . Even if you don’t consider yourself a daredevil, you’ll still find activities that feel exciting (hello, camping under the northern lights) without too much physical—or emotional—exertion required. So fasten your seatbelts, grab your best pair of hiking boots , and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Boat under the Iguazú Falls

South America’s Iguazú Falls, located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, make all other waterfalls look like mere trickles in comparison. The system of more than 200 cascades (reaching heights of around 270 feet) can be viewed from surrounding walkways and catwalks, but we’re fans of the more adventurous vantage-point—hopping on an Iguazú Jungle inflatable raft and sailing directly under the exhilarating, high-pressure falls.

Climb to Machu Picchu

No adventurer’s must-visit list is complete without Machu Picchu , the famous Incan citadel located in the Andes. While the site can be accessed via train and bus, more active travelers can take the five-day trek along the entire 26-mile-long Inca Trail. Or, thanks to local tour operator Sam Travel Peru , you can get dropped at kilometer marker 104 and do the whole experience in 24 hours .

Sand surf in the Sahara

The dunes of the Sahara are colossal, untouched, and tailor-made for extreme sports. The desert’s rows of barchans (meaning “crescent-shaped dunes” in Turkic) have ideal shapes for sand surfing (descending the slopes on a surfboard) and sandboarding (descending the slopes on a snowboard)—and those views don’t hurt, either. Stay at Erg Chigaga Luxury Camp in Morocco, which offers sandboarding in addition to other desert activities like camel rides and quad biking.

Heli-hike in British Columbia

With CMH Heli + Skiing , you can helicopter to the steepest and deepest powder in Canada for backcountry skiing. However, come summer , the company’s guides take guests on multi-day hiking trips to terrain otherwise inaccessible, along ridgelines, through alpine meadows, and to stunning viewpoints. While these high-altitude adventures are not for the faint at heart, the accommodations are quite comfortable, with log-hewn lodges complete with full-service restaurants, spa treatments, and a rooftop hot tub to relax in before another day on the trail.

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Hot air balloon over Cappadocia

A hot air balloon ride over central Turkey’s Cappadocia region provides 360-degree views of the famous limestone spires and “fairy chimneys”—something you can't get at the ground level. We recommend booking with Kapadokya Balloons , the first company that introduced hot air balloon tourism in Cappadocia. Services include transfers to and from your hotel, snacks, full insurance, and a champagne party after the flight.

Hunt for glaciers in Greenland

Greenland is relatively expensive and tricky to get to, but well worth the effort—especially since it’s one of the most untouched landscapes on the planet. Exhibit A: the hundreds-year-old icebergs and glaciers floating off the mainland, which you can get up close and personal with during a cruise excursion. ( Hurtigruten and Cruise Norway offer these sailings.)

Hop across Botswana on a mobile safari

While most safari camps stay in one place like a traditional hotel, the private canvas safaris by  Barclay Stenner Safaris are totally mobile, meaning you can pick up and move locations based on weather conditions and wildlife movements. The outfitter’s Botswana itinerary moves across the country to fauna-rich areas like the Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans—get ready to follow groups of lions, hippos, elephants, and more.

Paraglide over Turkey’s Blue Lagoon

Oludeniz has one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, with pebble shores and a “blue lagoon” of aquamarine hues. The beach also happens to be one of the world's best places to paraglide, thanks to stable weather and gorgeous panoramic views. The launch site for most companies is from Babadağ mountain, with jumping-off points reaching 6,000 feet above sea level.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef

Divers and snorkelers everywhere need to experience the Great Barrier Reef at least once in their lifetime. Not only does the site have more than 400 different types of coral and 1,500 species of fish, but the natural wonder has been rapidly eroding due to coral bleaching and global warming . That means it’s more urgent than ever to see this sight in all its glory—and to understand what we are losing.

Swim through Mexico’s cenotes

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula features a wealth of unique natural beauty, particularly when it comes to its cavernous cenotes. Floating in one of these natural sinkholes is an incredible experience, as is diving through the underground cave systems . When in Tulum , visit Dos Ojos (“Two Eyes”) to view one of the planet’s most beautiful underwater sites or Gran Cenote for rock formations that resemble Gothic architecture.

Free-fall over Dubai at 120 miles per hour

Dubai is one of the most over-the-top cities in the world, so are you really surprised that skydiving is one of its most popular activities?  Skydive Dubai is a company located near Jumeirah Beach, offering tandem skydiving for beginners and solo jumps for licensed divers. If you thought Dubai’s skyline was impressive already, just wait until you see it while falling from 13,000 feet in the air.

Scale Half Dome at Yosemite National Park

The Half Dome trail through Yosemite may be one of the most intense hikes you’ll ever take, stretching for 16 miles and ascending more than 5,500 feet. The final 400 feet are the trickiest—hikers must climb up the steep slope with two steel cables as their only support—but the breathtaking views from the top make the effort (and terror) worth it. Afterwards, stay at The Ahwahnee, one of the most beautiful national park hotels in the country.

Swim with great white sharks in South Africa

The fishing town of Gansbaai is often considered to be the birthplace of great white shark cage diving, an activity that would make most adrenaline junkies drool. Cage diving is totally safe (despite what some low-budget shark movies might lead you to believe), but we dare you to keep your heart rate in check as you come face-to-face with an apex predator.  Marine Dynamics is one of the most popular cage diving operators in town, with a marine biologist and videographer joining every tour.

Bungee jump in New Zealand

New Zealand practically invented adventure sports when the Kawarau Bridge Bungy opened in 1988. Here you join around 38,000 annual visitors to take the 140-foot jump from the South Island's historic, steel-framed Kawarau Bridge—an activity in which the views are almost as thrilling as the fall itself.

Climb Mount Fuji

Solitary Mount Fuji is probably Japan’s most iconic natural wonder , rising 12,388 feet above villages and reflecting on lakes’ surfaces. You can get views of the landmark from many places, like Lake Kawaguchi in Fujikawaguchiko and even the Park Hyatt Tokyo , but it’s the views from the mountain that will give you the most bragging rights. Visit from early July to mid-September to take advantage of the official climbing season, when the designated trails and paved roads are free of snow.

Go volcano boarding on Cerro Negro in Nicaragua

If you’re looking for action sports and adventure, we recommend booking a flight to Nicaragua right now. There you can kayak, surf, zipline through the jungle, and even sled down the side of an active volcano. Intrepid travelers love to climb up the 2,388-foot Cerro Negro and then “volcano board” back down (an activity where you sit or stand on a piece of plywood and slide your way down the slopes). You'll want to go with a guided group tour with this one. Bigfoot Hostels is one of many operators for excursions—for $25, you get transportation to the volcano, boards, safety equipment, snacks, and your speed clocked by a radar gun.

Take a white-knuckle drive in Norway

Who says your adrenaline can’t pump from the comfort of your car? Trollstigen is one of the world’s most popular (and  terrifying ) highways, known for its steep gradient and hairpin turns. The one-lane road passes such impressive wonders as the 1,050-foot Stigfossen waterfall, but be sure to pull over before you gawk and snap photos. There are several viewing platforms along the road that will let you take in the sites without risking a crash.

Dive Belize’s Great Blue Hole

Known for its circular shape and strikingly deep blue color , the Great Blue Hole is a 1,000-foot-wide sinkhole in the middle of Belize’s Lighthouse Reef. While an aerial shot is enough to convince anyone of its beauty, scuba divers are the ones who get to experience the wonders that lie beneath: massive, 40-foot limestone stalactites and stalagmites that formed during the last glacial period.

Go canyoning in the Azores

Portugal’s Azores Islands are equal parts adventurous and beautiful, inviting travelers to get up close and personal with nature while hiking, biking, and swimming. If you want to really push the envelope, try canyoning—an activity that has you rappel down a waterfall while navigating slippery rocks and fast-flowing water. Azores Getaways offers a comprehensive and easy-to-book experience. Training, equipment, on-site instructors, and snacks are all included in the excursion, which will no doubt become one of the most memorable of your life.

Kayak through Torres del Paine National Park

Chile’s Patagonia region is one of the most beautiful spots on the planet, and there are plenty of ways to explore the area. But while most people experience the sights while hiking, you can get a slightly different view from the water via a kayaking trip.  Kayak en Patagonia offers several tour options ranging in duration and difficulty levels, but all let you paddle past towering mountains, rugged glaciers, and other incredible vistas.

Sleep under the northern lights

Ah, the elusive northern lights . So many factors are at play when it comes to seeing the technicolor phenomenon—location, time of year, weather conditions—but it’s hard to lose with an excursion to Finnish Lapland. The Arctic area is one of the planet’s best for aurora viewing, especially if you get to sleep in an igloo hotel at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or mobile Aurora Bubble Sled . Up your viewing chances by planning a trip between December and March.

Go heli-skiing in Alaska

If you’re a seasoned traveler who’s conquered every black diamond slope in North America, there’s still one snowy adventure left to vanquish: heli-skiing. There’s nothing quite like hopping in a helicopter and being dropped onto untouched snow at the top of a mountain—especially in a setting as formidable as Alaska’s Chugach Mountains. The experienced guides at  Valdez Heli Ski Guides (VHSG) will help make this dream a reality, taking you to some of the best runs of your life and then letting you unwind (hot tub and massages included) at the cozy  Tsaina Lodge .

Snorkel between continents in Iceland

Iceland is one of the best countries in the world for adventure travel , with opportunities for everything from glacier hiking to snorkeling and diving. For the latter, head straight to Thingvellir National Park along the country’s Golden Circle route , where two tectonic plates slowly pull apart at the rate of about two centimeters (0.8 inches) per year. The phenomenon results in the Silfra fissure, a stunning rift valley where travelers can snorkel or dive in impossibly clear (and cold) waters. Tour company DIVE.IS offers tours for divers and every level of snorkeler—including those with no prior experience—and will snap an underwater photo of you touching two continents at the same time.

Float along the Amazon

Some remote destinations are best seen from the deck of a boat, and that includes the upper Amazon River. Aqua Expeditions ’ luxury cruises through the Peruvian stretch of the river tour the area’s wildlife and culture at a delightful, leisurely pace. You'll even have chef-prepared gourmet meals and five-star suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. Looking for something a little less luxe? Amazon Adventures offers kayaking trips along some Amazon tributaries, where you can fish for piranhas and camp out in the rainforest.

Surf ‘The Pipeline’ in Oahu

Oahu’s Banzai Pipeline (commonly referred to as The Pipeline) is easily one of the most sought-after surfing spots in the world. Located off the coast of the island’s north shore in Ehukai Beach Park, the surf reef break averages waves measuring nine feet high. This activity is definitely not for beginners, but even non-surfers will get a thrill out of watching the many surf competitions that take place at The Pipeline—all from the safety of a sunny beach.

Spot elusive wildlife in the Great Bear Rainforest

Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest is the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world—and one of the most magical, with elusive species like sea wolves and Kermode bears roaming its 21 million acres. Outer Shores Expeditions will take you on a nine-day excursion aboard a schooner, departing from British Columbia’s First Nations community of Bella Bella and stopping for sea kayaking along the way.

Soak in the planet’s most extreme infinity pool

Located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls attracts thousands of tourists each year. One of the biggest draws here is the Devil’s Pool , a naturally formed eddy sitting at the very edge of the falls, where daring swimmers can splash around between August and January (depending on water levels, that is). Given that a slippery rock barrier is the only thing separating you from going over the edge, this site is easily the planet’s most extreme infinity pool .

Camp in Antarctica

Antarctica is truly the final frontier when it comes to adventure travel, providing untouched landscapes, unique wildlife, and more activities than you’ll know what to do with (like cruising, caving, and thermal spring soaking , to name a few). If you can get yourself to Punta Arenas, Chile, Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions will fly you to Antarctica for three days of skiing and hiking before setting you up for a South Pole sleepover.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

2-FOR-1 GA TICKETS WITH OUTSIDE+

Don’t miss Thundercat, Fleet Foxes, and more at the Outside Festival.

GET TICKETS

BEST WEEK EVER

Try out unlimited access with 7 days of Outside+ for free.

Start Your Free Trial

A Survivalist’s Secrets for Cooking over a Campfire

No camp stove? You can still whip up a hot meal with these tips.

5 Tips for Leveling Up Your Trail Running

Five ways to measure your progress trail running across surfaces, distances, and routes

Eric Larsen Missed Out on the North Pole Again. He Isn’t Giving Up.

The 2024 North Pole season was canceled after the main runway at Barneo Ice Camp cracked. The American guide still has ambitions to return to the planet’s northernmost point.

The Best Adventures in Minnesota Require a Paddle

Explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness with these tips from an experienced local canoeist and outfitter

Hiking Rewired My Brain. Here’s How It Can Do the Same to Yours.

Walking across deserts and mountain ranges taught the author important lessons on friendship, compassion, and understanding others

Mount Everest Season Kicks Off with New Rules, Big Crowds, and Poop Bags

The number of climbing permits issued by Nepal is down from 2023 as some expeditions have headed to China. But there’s bound to be drama on the world’s highest peak as climbers adjust to new regulations governing pollution and safety.

The Subtle Art of Catch and Release

When PTSD from military service in Somalia changed the course of Chad Brown’s life, the subtle art of catch and release fly fishing changed it back

I Love Dogs. But Here’s Why I Don’t Love Your Trail Dog.

There’s nothing I loathe more than getting charged by a dog that’s off leash while I’m out running on a trail

BLM Finally Prioritizes Conservation Over Gas and Oil on Public Lands

A new Public Lands Rule will mandate a focus on landscape health, conservation, and recreation

Famed “Ride the Rockies” Race Canceled Due to Low Registration

Organizers are not sure if the event, which dates back to the 1980s, will return next summer

Everything You Know About Lightning Safety in the Backcountry Is Wrong

Most backcountry lightning education—including what’s taught by major outdoor organizations—is antiquated. Here’s your overdue expert update.

Climbing Season on Mount Everest Is Starting Later than Normal

Dangers in the Khumbu Icefall forced rope fixers to chart a different route. Now, some expedition operators are scrambling to stay on schedule.

Earth Day 2024

A conversation with activists, a look at the radical origins of Earth Day, and a slew of ways you can take action for the planet every single day.

Why Did Vandals Destroy Red Sandstone at Lake Mead?

Rangers at Lake Mead National Recreation Area are searching for two men who were filmed destroying ancient rocks on a hiking trail

Capitalism Has Stolen Earth Day. Let’s Take It Back.

We spoke to three climate activists about how Earth Day, which started as a protest, has become a day of corporate greenwashing, and what we can all do about it

Avalanches Only Killed Two People in Colorado This Season. Was That Pure Luck?

We dug into the numbers with the Colorado Avalanche Information Center to find out

To Repel Ticks, Hikers Should Smell Like Ants

A Canadian study found that chemicals excreted by ants keep ticks at bay. Researchers hope the discovery leads to new ways to ward off the Lyme Disease-spreading insects.

Here’s What I Wish I Knew Before Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

From meal planning to meeting the townies, every aspiring thru-hiker should hear this hard-won advice

Is Your Local Bouldering Area in Trouble? Call the Zoo.

The Asheboro Boulders could have been destroyed by a mining company. Instead they were saved by the North Carolina Zoo.

“He Taught Me So Much”: Coach and Skier Dies Jumping over a Highway

Remembered for his passion for skiing and adventurous spirit, 21-year-old Winter Park, Colorado, coach Dallas LeBeau leaves a legacy of inspiration and admiration

Our Favorite Outdoor Adventures from Early Spring

A backcountry ski trip, a bikepacking getaway, and a weekend on the bunny slope—here are the routes that Outside editors followed in March

A Wyoming Man Allegedly Tortured and Killed a Wolf. Why Isn’t He in Jail?

Our columnist breaks down the laws that allow for animal cruelty

Your Rain Jacket May Soon Be Illegal

“Forever Chemicals” keep mud out of your boots and make rain jackets waterproof, but they’re about to be illegal

Return to Sender

Can these two seasoned snowboarders line up the conditions for an all-time wild Oregon rally?

Don’t Be That Guy. Here’s How Not to Act at the Campsite.

Follow these steps to give your camp neighbors an unforgettable experience. (Note that we said “unforgettable,” not “good.”)

Skier Saves Two Lives in Helicopter Crash that Kills Three

The crash unfortunately took three lives, including an American IFMGA guide

How I Dealt with My Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis: First, Hike 500 Miles

I could barely walk, a condition doctors told me would likely deteriorate further. That prompted me to plan an adventure of a lifetime.

Women Who Built the National Parks Are Finally Getting Recognized

President Biden issued an executive order last week to bolster women's history in our National Parks

Can an App Really Keep You Safe While Backcountry Skiing?

AspectAvy, a new app developed by a guide, promises to help skiers make more conservative decisions in the backcountry. Some avalanche experts aren’t so sure.

8 Bucket-List Multisport Adventure Races

Test your skills (and limits) in America’s wildest adventure challenges

I’m Turning My Backyard into a Tiny National Park. You Can Too.

Four easy things you can do to rewild your space and support climate-critical biodiversity

Endless Adventure

What happens when you commit to a life of adventure? You get better at it.

Skiing Hurts My Feelings. What’s a Diehard to Do?

After winter no-showed, I grappled with the grief of loving a sport that may not exist a lifetime from now

The Beginner’s Guide to Thru-Hiking

Dreaming of an extended trek on a storied trail? Here’s everything you need to know to get started at thru-hiking or get better at it.

Is the Rise in California Ski Accidents Linked to Weed Gummies and GoPros?

According to a report by the Los Angeles Times and subsequent news sources, California ski accidents are up nearly 50 percent over the past two years

Nevada Offers Travelers $5,000 to Hike the Pacific Crest Trail

With the recent completion of the Capital to Tahoe Trail, Carson City is looking for two hikers to go from its core all the way to Canada for good money

4 Ways the Texas Gulf Coast Will Amaze You

Turn every day into a journey of discovery while exploring the region’s wildlife and watersports

Lou Whittaker's Son Remembers the Legendary Mountaineer

The renowned guide and climber founded one of the nation’s leading guide services and summitted Mount Rainier over 250 times

Let Us Debate the Latest Controversy over Ski Resort Parking

Beloved for its renegade reputation, Colorado ski area Arapahoe Basin will charge skiers to park next season. Two A-Basin fans debate the decision—and discuss why paid parking represents a dividing line between mega resorts and local ski hills.

Wild Animals Taught Me to… Run!

Singer-songwriter David Lindes found his way into running with help from the most unexpected teacher: a bull moose

Meet Cinamen, the Orange Cat Guiding Hikers on the Appalachian Trail Who Went Viral

The 8-year-old cat from New York gained internet fame for leading guests at his owner's AirBnb on Appalachian Trail hikes. It's a role he was born to play.

Alterra Bought Arapahoe Basin. Can the Resort Keep Its Soul?

Die-hards are worried that their beloved ski hill will lose its local vibe, but management remains characteristically optimistic

Photographing the Colorado River Is My Lifelong Obsession

More than 15 years ago, Pete McBride set out to document all 1,450 miles of the threatened waterway. He captured its beauty and multiplying challenges, and his images underscore why its preservation is essential to us all.

“The Best Storyteller on the Planet.” Loved Ones Remember Everest Icon David Breashears.

Famed mountaineer, filmmaker, and Everest pioneer David Breashears died on March 14. Those who knew him best share memories of the legendary alpinist.

We Just Gave $25,000 to this Life-Changing Youth Sports Nonprofit

Utah’s Youth Sports Alliance beat hundreds of other applicants to win the 2023 Defender Service Awards. Their winnings: a check from category sponsor Outside—and a Land Rover Defender 130.

On the Front Lines of NYC’s ‘Kittenpocalypse’

We think of New York as having a rat problem, but cats are doing just as much damage

Cody Townsend Ends “The Fifty” with 46 Lines Complete

The ski mountaineer left the door open to pursue the last four ski descents, but his timeline remains unclear

We Ranked the 16 Worst Things You’re Probably Tossing in Your Recycling Bin (But Shouldn’t)

Red Solo cups. Bubble mailers. Batteries. Vape pens. We ranked commonly binned items that cause big problems for your recycling center into a March Madness-style bracket, and asked a panel of experts to vote on the biggest losers.

Guilty or Innocent? How a Sled Dog Named Blowhole Chewed His Way to Social Media Fame.

Meet the famous Alaskan husky—and Iditarod finisher—who got miffed at a musher and chomped her truck’s brake lines. (Allegedly. Because a lot of people think this pup is innocent.)

Pierce Brosnan Broke the Rules in Yellowstone. Here’s How We’d Punish Him.

The Irish actor was recently fined $1,500 for walking in a restricted thermal area in America’s oldest national park. Articles editor Frederick Dreier explores more creative penalties.

Your Ski Season May Get Drastically Shorter

A new study sheds more light on the direct effects of climate change on the ski industry

America Needs Wildland Firefighters More than Ever, but Attrition Is at Record Levels

Highly skilled firefighters are the last line of defense against wildfires, but that line is fraying because the government decided long ago that they’re not worth very much

American Mountaineer and Filmmaker David Breashears Dies at Age 68

The pioneering climber and documentarian helped millions of people worldwide learn about Mount Everest and the Himalayas

Nepal Passed New Rules for Climbing Everest. Not Everyone Is Happy.

Amid proclamations and revisions, guides and operators are left scratching their heads

Christina Lustenberger Skis the Impossible

Lusti has built a career—and a life—on toughness and a preternatural ability to ski through puckering technical terrain. Her greatest challenge may be learning to let herself be soft.

A 20-Year-Old Backcountry Skier Died After Falling Down Tuckerman Ravine

A student from the University of Vermont suffered fatal traumatic injuries after sliding 600 feet down the famed Northeast ski face. Two others suffered serious injuries and required rescue.

Skiing Is Broken. Can Indy Pass Fix It?

This startup ski pass promises to save what’s best about skiing, and it costs about what you’d pay for a single day at a megaresort

The Iditarod Is Embroiled in a Controversy Over Moose Guts

Officials with dogsledding’s biggest race say a star musher broke the rules. His infraction: improper removal of moose innards.

Here’s How I Saved $9,000 Last Year Going Green

Making sustainable choices is not just good for the planet, but your wallet, too. I crunched the numbers and discovered that by doing these 11 easy things over a year, I saved almost ten grand.

The Trouble with the Internet’s Most Famous Moose

When Marty Moose strolled into Santa Fe looking for a mate, he became a viral sensation in New Mexico. But that did nothing to help his search for love—and it created big issues for wildlife managers.

The Latest Cycling Controversy Involves This Crazy Helmet

Tour de France team Visma–Lease a Bike debuted the Giro Aerohead II this week, and the massive helmet generated an impressive tonnage of online discourse

Yes, Strava for Dogs Is Now a Real Thing

The fitness platform is partnering with a smart collar company to share the athletic pursuits of your favorite four-legged mountain athlete

This Cross-Country Skier Just Ended America’s 41-Year Losing Streak

Alaskan Gus Schumacher became the first American man since 1983 to win a distance cross-country World Cup. The victory has transformed him into a ski racing celebrity.

Way, Way, Too Close to a Whale

People dream of boating or swimming with whales. But that’s based on the false assumption that they are gentle giants that don’t bother humans.

Flaco the Owl Was Destined to Die Tragically. The Man Who Followed Him for a Year Reveals Why.

Ed Shanahan spent the last year reporting on Flaco for The New York Times. Here he discusses the owl’s thrilling life and tragic death—and why the story grabbed the attention of people everywhere.

The Kids from Cool Lane Just Want to Ride Bikes

In May 2022, we took a spin with the Richmond Cycling Corps, a mountain-bike-racing team from the Virginia capital’s public-housing system. Coaches teach young riders how to shred trails and prepare for adult life. The kids, meanwhile, measure happiness one pedal stroke at a time.

A New Policy Will Combat Eating Disorders in Competitive Climbing

The policy mandates athletes to undergo questionnaires and tests before competing, with those identified as at-risk receiving further evaluation and treatment

We Ranked the 22 States of Hiking’s Triple Crown from Hardest to Easiest

The Appalachian, Pacific Crest, and Continental Divide trails pass through a combined 22 states. Our hiking columnist categorizes them from hardest to easiest.

What It Takes to Build the Most Dangerous Jumps in the World

At Red Bull Rampage, the infamous freeride mountain-bike event held each year in a remote corner of Utah, riders and teams construct their own runs, walking a fine line between death-defying and deadly

A Rescue Report from Mount Washington Pulls No Punches

A recent SAR communique reams out an incautious adventurer who climbed up the peak amid dangerous conditions and then called for emergency lifesaving

The Best Rain Jackets in the World Will Soon Be Illegal—with Good Reason

Clothing companies have long relied on PFAS, or forever chemicals, to provide stellar water, stain, and oil repellency. But at what cost? New regulations are forcing your favorite apparel brands across the globe to rethink their chemistry.

“Please I Will Give Anything for You to Come Back”

Why did a mother with no backcountry experience take her sister and 13-year-old son to live off the grid on a 10,000-foot mountain during a Colorado winter?

Pioneering Skier Kasha Rigby Dies in Kosovo Avalanche

Rigby, 54, redefined telemarking with her high-speed, hard-charging style

Did This Website Revolutionize Surfing or Kill a Part of Its Renegade Soul?

The forecasting behemoth Surfline redefined the art of scoring waves. But some say it’s to blame for increasingly crowded breaks and a pervasive fear of missing out.

How a Climber with Parkinson’s Started a Movement

A retired physician’s efforts to mitigate his Parkinson’s symptoms catalyzed a program that would turn a climbing gym into a research facility

45 Seconds of Terror at Palisades Tahoe

The deadly slide that ripped through the California resort on January 10 transformed skiers and snowboarders into rescuers. The disaster forced survivors and eyewitnesses to reconsider the risk of dying inbounds at a ski resort.

Climber Charles Barrett Found Guilty on Three Counts of Sexual Assault

The trial will be followed by a sentencing hearing, scheduled for May 21. Barrett faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

There Are New Rules for Pooping on Mount Everest

Mountaineers now must haul their feces back to Base Camp in wag bags. We asked veteran guides how this shift will change life on the world’s highest peak.

The Park Service Wants to Ban All Rock Climbing in Designated Wilderness

If the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service proposals pass, fixed anchors in wilderness will be considered illegal unless granted special permission

The ‘Into the Wild’ Bus Has Another Story to Tell

The abandoned vehicle where Chris McCandless died teaches us a lot about modern Alaska

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

"Rocky, wild and unpredictable" — why Baja California is ideal offroading country

Unfurling for more than 750 miles down a stick-thin peninsula, Baja California has long been known for water adventures — but new off-roading tours help travellers see it from a different perspective.

Gripping the roof handle and staring silently over the dashboard, I avert my gaze from the 160ft drop to my left. There’s just six inches of dirt road standing between us and the cliff edge: one wrong move from our driver, and the pickup truck we’re in is going straight into the Sea of Cortez.

The first time I visited Mexico’s Baja California, the world’s second-longest peninsula, it was on a backpacking trip through Central America. I hitchhiked and bussed over 650 miles from Tijuana, on the border with the US, to Todos Santos, just short of Baja’s most southerly point, Cabo San Lucas. Travelling along the Carretera Transpeninsular, I stopped at every major town along Baja’s main highway, wine-tasting in Ensenada, whale-watching in Guerrero Negro and swimming with sea lions on Espiritu Santo Island.

During those long drives, I’d stare out at the stark desert landscape for hours: salt-encrusted greasewood shrubs and giant cardón cacti sprouted from swathes of sand and clay-red mountains, which often turned candyfloss pink at sunset. But what caught my eye were the narrow dirt tracks, hundreds of them crisscrossing the desert like a map drawn in the sand, veering off the highway towards sun-baked sierras and hidden turquoise coves. One day, I thought to myself, I’d return to Baja California to see where those roads led.

Five years on, I’ve come to La Paz, in the south of the Baja California peninsula, to join Baja Expeditions’ first-ever overlanding trip. The company has specialised in whale-watching, kayaking and wild camping in the state since the 1970s, but has recently branched out with off-roading tours to encourage visitors to explore the peninsula’s less-visited interior.

“People think Baja is just beaches and whales,” says our driver Mike Thorneycroft, a Canadian who moved to Baja California in 2020. “But it’s more than that. These trips are about getting people out of the resorts and into Baja’s least-visited communities, and learning some of their history and culture.”

Mike gets us past the cliff edge safely, manoeuvring around asteroid-sized potholes and boulders with ease as we climb up and over Sierra de la Laguna, part of a mountain range that connects Baja California Sur, the southern state of Baja California, with southern California in the US.  

On slightly wider roads, I start to relax and take in the views: unlike the parched desert I’d seen from the highway years ago, these mountains are lush from recent hurricane rains, flourishing with lime-green mesquite trees and pink and yellow wildflowers. We cross arroyos — dry riverbeds that fill up after heavy rainfall — flowing with crystalline water, where orange butterflies and free-roaming piglets from a nearby ranch are taking a drink. A vulture and a flaming red cardinal bird join soon after.

“Baja California is perfect for off-roading,” says Mike, who organises and competes in long-distance off-road rallies across the state. “The roads are rocky, wild and unpredictable, changing quickly in the rainy season. But that’s what makes it exciting.”

Near the former silver-mining town of   El Triunfo, we stop at the Santuario de los Cactus, a community-run garden with some   of the oldest and rarest cacti on earth, including the cardón, the world’s largest cactus. The garden’s grey-moustached volunteer caretaker, Guadalupe ‘Lupe’ Gonzalez, shows us around, pointing out which cacti fruits are edible and how to extract water from their flesh. He also shows us cacti species used to treat kidney stones, stomach aches and open wounds.

“I learnt about the medicinal properties of cacti from the rancheros (ranchers),” says Lupe, caressing the spines of a 400-year-old cactus as if they were whiskers. He’s been caring for the plants here for more than 30 years and offers guided tours of the garden for a small donation. “But this knowledge comes from the Indians. There are none left here now, but we know how to survive in the desert because of them.”

Before the Spanish arrived, Baja California was inhabited by three major Indigenous groups: the Cochimí, the Guaycura and the Pericú. Ancient rock paintings in Sierra de San Francisco, around 465 miles north of where I am and described by UNESCO as some of the most impressive collections of rock paintings in the world, suggest that these tribes had lived on the peninsula for at least 10,000 years.  

Although the Spanish colonised Baja California much later than Mexico’s mainland, around the late 17th century, the culture and history of these local Indigenous groups was erased more quickly than in the rest of Mexico. Some experts believe this is because the region’s Indigenous groups were nomadic hunter-gatherers, who lacked the big cities and societal structures that helped preserve the legacies of the Mayans and Aztecs in other Mexican states. Today, very few Indigenous groups remain, with most living in the north of Baja California.

After a few hours of driving along the spectacular Barriles Santa Teresa coastal road, we make the steep descent to Palo Blanquito beach, where we’ll be spending the night. It’s a wild strip of sand, where milky-red cliffs crumble into a dazzling turquoise sea studded with volcanic rock. Come sunset, it’s just our truck on the beach and a flock of pelicans floating on the dead-still water, like rubber ducks in a jade-coloured bath. We eat refried beans and chicken burritos under the stars, watching a brilliant-white crescent moon rise over the water. That night, I sleep to the sound of the waves lapping gently at the shoreline.

The next morning, I watch the beach come to life from my tent. As the sun rises above the horizon, the sea turns from liquid silver to light pink, illuminating the inside of the tent with a warm glow. A family of pelicans — each one resembling a light aircraft — skim across the water with mouths agape, hoping to catch one of the flying fish backflipping through the air. Eager to join the action, I roll out of the tent and into the sea, plunging head first into the crystal-clear water with my mask and snorkel. Below the surface is an underwater city made of coral and volcanic rock, and colourful fish: I see a long, translucent cornetfish; a tiny cortez rainbow wrasse; and an enormous shoal of California yellowtail, the soft morning light bouncing off their tinfoil-like skin. It’s tempting to stay longer on this wild, empty beach, lounging on the rocks and floating in the warm turquoise waters as the resident pelicans do. But Mike has packed up camp and started the engine — it’s time to continue our journey through the desert roads of Baja California. “That’s the thing with overlanding,” says Mike, opening the passenger door for me to get in. “There’s always one more road to explore.”

Related Topics

You may also like.

Here are the best ways to get outdoors in all 50 states

Visiting Scotland? Here’s what the locals love

Free bonus issue.

10 best things to do in Alaska

8 campervanning essentials you must have

An ‘impenetrable’ wildlife sanctuary in Argentina opens to the world

Essential kit for cold-weather camping

The top 3 adventures in The Florida Keys & Key West

• Environment
• Perpetual Planet

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• History Magazine
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Paid Content
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

What is adventure tourism and why is it so big?

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

Adventure tourism is big, it’s exciting, it’s fun…. but what actually is it? In this article I will teach you all about this exciting type of tourism, what the history behind adventure tourism is, what the different types of adventure tourism are and what amazing examples of this type of tourism there are around the world. Ready to learn more? Read on…

What is adventure tourism?

History of adventure tourism, hard adventure tourism, soft adventure tourism, hard adventure tourism activities , soft adventure tourism activities , adventure tourism in india, adventure tourism in iceland, adventure tourism in costa rica, adventure tourism in new zealand, benefits of adventure tourism, disadvantages of adventure tourism, adventure tourism: additional reading.

Adventure tourism is tourism that involves any kind of activity or adventure. It especially relates to those that involve risk, or requires extensive planning. The Adventure Travel Trade Association defines it as a tourist activity that includes physical activity, cultural exchange, or activities in nature .  Meanwhile, Sung et al describe it as: the sum of the phenomena and relationships arising from the interactions of adventure touristic activities with the natural environment away from the participant’s usual place of residence area and containing elements of risk in which the outcome is influenced by the participation, setting, and the organizer of the tourist’s experience . HH Sung is an academic who has researched this branch of tourism in great detail.

Ultimately, adventure tourism is all about ADVENTURE! It is a pretty broad term really and many would argue that it is subjective (what I deem to be adventure, you may not). Nonetheless, this is a big part of the tourism industry and whilst it is an example of niche tourism , the sector is growing fast! There are lots of types of activities and types of travel that come under the umbrella term of adventure tourism and I will outline these for you shortly.

Of course, people have been travelling for centuries- the history of tourism is a long and fruitful one! Over the years travel evolved into tourism (travel for travel’s sake) and now we can see many different branches of tourism.

We can trace the roots of adventure tourism specifically back to perhaps as early as 569 AD when Alboin, king of the Lombards, climbed Matajur in the Alps . Adventure tourism is all about doing something with a bit of risk, and putting planning into it. We don’t know how much preparation Alboin put into this expedition or whether it was some sort of off the cuff climb – but it can still be seen as an early example of adventure tourism. Climbing mountains at this time was generally a practical or symbolic activity. It was usually done for economic, political, or religious reasons.

However, in the 1800s, adventurers pushed the limits more and more. It became a formal sport, and people did it for fun. Other adventurous activities such as caving, river-rafting, abseiling and gorge walking emerged as a fun way to pass the time. As people got more into them, these activities formed part of adventure tourism. Organisations such as Nat Geo and also The Explorers Club, as well as Boy Scouts and Girl Guides  to an extent, were established. These have always promoted and supported adventure tourism.

In recent years consumer desires have evolved and many people have/are moving away from the traditional sun, sea and sand package holiday model and instead seeking alternative experience. There are a wide range of types of tourism that people are embracing more and more nowadays, and one example is adventure tourism. There are more adventure tourism companies including travel agents and tour operators who specialise in this field than there have ever been before.

Types of adventure tourism

Adventure tourism can be split into two ‘types’. These are hard and soft. I will explore the differences below…

As the name suggests, hard adventure tourism refers to activities which are typically more high-risk. They require intense training, changes in diet, lots of practice, a guide and so on.

Soft adventure activities are the opposite – much less risky, and don’t require the long-term commitment that hard adventure tourism activities often would. They often are led by a guide, but you can do this sort of thing without. Generally these are much more popular, as they are easier activities and (as mentioned) have a much lower risk.

Adventure tourism activities

There are so many activities which come under the umbrella of adventure tourism. Whether you travel simply for the purpose of undertaking this adventure or decide to incorporate it into your trip, if you have done any of these then you are officially an adventure traveller! I’ll split them into hard and soft as above. Activities like skydiving are something you can do in most places, as long as the weather allows – skiing, however, requires specific conditions and plenty of hills.

• Mountaineering/mountain climbing
• Ice Climbing
• Rock climbing
• Trekking/intense hiking
• Free diving
• Extreme biking
• Birdwatching
• SCUBA diving
• Horse riding
• Kayaking/rafting
• Orienteering
• Hiking (gentle)
• Snorkelling
• Snowboarding
• Eco-tourism

Adventure tourism destinations

You can enjoy adventure tourism activities in pretty much any destination. There are some more than others, however, which are better set up for this branch of tourism.

Adventure tourism is a big deal in India . This diverse and spectacular country has so much to offer – and one of the big draws here is hiking and trekking. There are plenty of incredible places to hike in India. Gentle hikes/treks are a form of soft adventure tourism, while some more intense treks and hikes can fall into the hard category. Uttarakhand is one of the best places to hike in India; the ‘Roopkund trek’ is a famous trek around Roopkund Lake, which is surrounded by hundreds of human skeletons! 

Other examples of adventure tourism in India include surfing in Kovalam, skiing in Auli and white water rafting in Rishikesh.

Beautiful Iceland is one of the most popular places for visiting the Northern Lights. This in itself is a bit of an adventure, but there are all sorts of other things you can do which come under this branch of tourism. You can snorkel or scuba dive in Silfra Fissure, for example, or go inside a dormant volcano at Thrihnukagigur.

It is impossible to be bored in a place like Costa Rica. The country has so much to offer, and is an example of somewhere that to most of us (no matter where you come from) is pretty exotic. Head deep into the jungle on your adventure to see some colourful wildlife; visit the Costa Rica volcanoes and cloud forests ; go rafting and hiking and ziplining and so much more. You can book 10-day trips that encompass all of these things, or you could stay somewhere peaceful and relax for the majority of your holiday, opting to book a one-day tour for some adventure.

Said by some to be the home of adventure tourism, New Zealand is a must for anyone considering this type of trip. With so much space and such a sparse population , is it any wonder that this lovely little country is home to so much adventure? Admire the views from up high by skydiving in many different locations, or raft on the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world in Rotorua! From caving to off-road driving to heli-skiing, there is so much choice in New Zealand.

There are many benefits when it comes to adventure tourism. One huge benefit is simply that it is so much fun. Trying something new, or doing something you already enjoy, is a brilliant way to spend your time while travelling. Gaining a new skill or honing the one you’ve been learning for ages – it’s such a sense of achievement. This is particularly true for activities that require physical hard work such as skiing, or training like mountain climbing.

Adventure tourism is growing fast, and with that comes job creation. This is a definite benefit of any type of tourism. Jobs are created for guides and instructors, for people who work in the booking department of tourism companies, for people working in hotels or restaurants in areas that people may not visit otherwise. All of this means the economy is growing and the industry is thriving, resulting in positive economic impacts of tourism . Local communities are supported by all forms of tourism. This is no exception!

Due to the rise in the popularity of ecotourism and the ongoing conversations around sustainability, adventure tourism companies are often dedicated to protecting the environment. Though it may seem like these activities could be harmful, they are often not. This is because companies ensure the activities they offer are respectful of the planet too. It also allows more people to fall in love with the outdoors.

There are some disadvantages to adventure tourism too. Nothing is black and white, of course, and points on both sides are incredibly nuanced. While these activities are a fun chance to try something new, they can be dangerous. Hard adventure tourism activities are considered high-risk. Many will require you to sign a disclaimer (like skydiving) and for some you need months if not years of training. Most insurance companies won’t cover you either. To climb Mount Everest, for example, you need a permit – with the fees on top, this will set you back around $20,000 before you even buy equipment. There are strict criteria you need to meet to be granted one, too.

And even though many adventure tourism companies are looking out for the planet, individuals often are not. There is no guarantee that visitors will always be respectful of the local environment. From standing on things they shouldn’t to the classing dropping litter, there are many negatives that we can see from an increased footfall.

There may also be cultural and social impacts. With more visitors, locals may see some sort of loss of their cultural heritage over time. This can be devastating. With more tourists in place, especially during peak season, peoples’ roles in society naturally change. The status quo is affected.

Now that you are well-informed about thew adventure tourism industry, you may want to learn more about these tourism industries too-

• Rural tourism explained: What, where and why
• What is glamping and how does it work?
• What is ‘begpacking’ and why is it so bad?
• What is sustainable tourism and why does it matter?
• Volunteer tourism: Everything you need to know

Liked this article? Click to share!

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

My four-day rail and ferry adventure from the UK to Albania

From London to Tirana, via Chambéry’s medieval streets, bustling Bari and Albania’s dynamic capital, this trip across Europe has treats at every turn

M y overriding memories of crossing countries by train, on a trip from London to Albania, are of half-empty carriages and countryside sweeping past windows bathed in the soft orange glow of sunset. I remember cypress trees, red-roofed villages with square churches, farmland in neat strips and row upon row of vineyards.

On my London-Paris-Chambéry-Turin-Bari-Tirana journey over land and sea, there was, for long stretches, little to do. The wifi was patchy. It took a while to adapt to having so much time to simply watch the world go by, travelling through landscapes without having to navigate them.

The biggest stress happened long before I set off, when a landslide not far from the French border with Italy blocked the rail line between Chambéry and Turin, forcing a closure that continues today. Byway, the no-fly operator I had booked with, offered to reroute me through Nice and on to Turin via the Vermenagna valley (with changes in Tende and Cuneo), or book me on the FlixBus service over part of the Mont Blanc massif. I was keen to see Chambéry and the Alps, so I chose the bus.

People seemed surprised when I told them I was travelling overland to Albania. As I gushed about the romance of slow travel by train and sleeper ferry, and my excitement about Tirana, I got comments about being “brave”. I didn’t feel especially brave: all the planning, tickets and hotel bookings were done for me, and friendly help was a WhatsApp call away if needed.

I just had to download the Rail Planner app for my Interrail pass and make sure I was at the right station at the right time (Turin was the biggest challenge: it has four main railway stations and taxis scream between them bearing anxious-looking passengers).

The entire journey took four days. If I did it all again, I’d stay longer in Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot – and remember to buy my Paris Métro ticket from the cafe on the Eurostar.

Day one: London to Chamb éry

First to Paris’s Gare du Nord, then the metro to Gare de Lyon, where I make a beeline for a cafe opposite the station. Noise pervades the pavement tables of Café Terminus, but the cacophony is delightful – an atmospheric place for a citron pressé .

I’m in plenty of time for the train to Chambéry and, excitingly, am on the upper deck. Soon, we break free from the suburbs to trace huge stands of forest. Beyond Lyon begins a ripple of hills, lazy rivers and thickly forested slopes. As evening approaches, it’s all Alpine scenery. I arrive at an almost-empty station and walk to the boutique Hotel des Princes in Chambéry’s old town.

Chambéry has an Italian feel – it was the seat of the House of Savoy before the dynasty moved on to Turin – and its medieval alleys, cathedral and pastel-coloured townhouses are quietly impressive. The 1838 Fontaine des Éléphants sits in the middle of the closest square to the old town, and peeking from the end of every street are the Bauges and Chartreuse mountain ranges. My stay is peaceful and easy.

Day two: Chamb éry to Turin

From Chambéry, the train to Turin would take about 2½ hours, but the bus takes double this. I’m on the top deck again, which is worth it for the sight of misty fingers of early morning light breaking across the mountain ridge. Snoozing backpackers rouse themselves to snap pictures of remote Mont Blanc peaks, before slumbering once more through the tunnel to Italy. In Turin there’s perfume in the air from the blossom-covered trees.

Turin’s grid of long, straight boulevards is testament to its development by the Romans – the redbrick Palatine Gate is another Roman relic – and its grand piazzas, royal palaces and graffitied colonnades date from the city’s Savoy heyday in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the number one attraction is the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum).

My favourite moments? Ricotta and fig ice-cream on Piazza San Carlo, an aperitivo on off-the-beaten-path Via Sant’Agostino and the towering neoclassical Mole Antonelliana (national museum of cinema). I eat Turin’s famous doughy pizza al padellino (pan pizza) and spend a comfortable night in the eaves of Hotel Urbani in 19th-century residential streets close to the grand Porta Nuova train station.

after newsletter promotion

Day three: Turin to Bari

The views from my next train are of cinematic Tuscan scenes. Scorched fields, vines and Italian cypress trees. Neat red roofs and shabby-chic farmhouses. Fluffy clouds cling to hills that Google Maps tells me are the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. After hours of soothing golden landscapes, the opal-blue Adriatic wallops into view just north of Ancona. Beach bars whip by and cypress trees are replaced with palm trees: I’ve arrived in the south of Italy.

Bari is hands down my favourite stop. The noise, heat and energy as we step off the train in the early evening are joyous. After Chambéry and Turin, Bari feels brash, a little rough around the edges even; a proper port city. The labyrinthine alleyways of the whitewashed old town are almost cliched in their cuteness. Despite the troupes of tightly packed headphone-wearing Americans following guided tours, it somehow manages to retain a tranquil atmosphere.

Old ladies yawn from the shade as tourists surreptitiously snap pictures and laundry flutters from balconies. I could stay for ever, but after 24 hours (which includes a lot of pasta, a stroll along the posh promenade to the not-so-posh city beach and a night in an elegant aparthotel, Residence Zodiacus , halfway between the station and the old town), it’s time to board the night ferry to Albania.

Day (and night) four: Bari to Tirana

I arrive at the ferry on foot and am escorted through the car deck to jokes about going in the wrong direction (to Albania, instead of from it). In the early morning I spot a pink sky through the cracked window of my comfy en suite cabin, and head to the top deck to see the sun rise over the distant outline of Albania. Disembarking in the port of Durrës is a bit of a scrum and there’s a bus to the capital waiting, but I opt instead for a five-minute taxi ride to the centre of town and breakfast of pastries and espresso on a dazzling white road lined with boutiques and palm trees. I later regret this though, as the aircon on the grubby public bus I eventually take to Tirana is more tired than I am, and drops me in an urban sprawl miles from the centre.

Tirana itself is a revelation. My hotel, Padam Boutique , is a grand villa with handsome rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows, and there’s striking new skyward architecture on every nearby street. A short stroll away is the landmark Pyramid of Tirana , which stands as a symbol and monument to change (and is fun to climb at sunset). Skanderbeg Square – a jumble of buildings erected on a roundabout at the time of the celebrations to mark the fall of communism in 1992 – is now a pedestrianised, glossy public space. There are nods to Albania’s recent, wretched history behind the iron curtain, of course – the Bunk’Art and Bunk’Art 2 museums, in nuclear bunkers are unmissable – but Tirana and the country are more than just the last century. My journey is done, but it feels like Tirana is just getting into its stride.

The trip was provided by Byway , which offers sustainable travel and accommodation packages across the UK and Europe. Its Alps to Albania trip costs from £679pp

• Slow Travel
• Adventure travel
• Public transport trips
• Rail travel
• France holidays
• Albania holidays
• Italy holidays

Most viewed

Baffin Island: looking for narwhal in Arctic Canada

An exploration of this island between mainland Canada and Greenland is ideal for the adventurous at heart

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

In the Middle Ages, their tusks were mistaken for unicorn horns and were deemed so magical that Ivan the Terrible called for one on his deathbed – and even today, narwhal still retain a little of their ancient mystique. Among the deepest divers of all marine mammals, these whales are elusive, and little understood by science, says Phoebe Smith in Wanderlust – but they are not endangered, and if you time it right, in parts of Arctic Canada your chances of seeing one are not bad. 

The best bet is Eclipse Sound on Baffin Island, where narwhal frequent the edge of the sea ice (the floe edge) in early summer. I had no luck on my week-long trip there with the tour operator Arctic Kingdom – but the adventure was worth it even so. Set between mainland Canada and Greenland, Baffin Island is more than twice the size of Great Britain. From Iqaluit, in the far south, Arctic Kingdom's guests fly to Pond Inlet, a small town in the north, from which they travel by qamutiik – a traditional wooden sled, pulled by a snowmobile – to base camp. It’s a further two hours to the floe edge. (The ice now melts so quickly and unpredictably, owing to climate change, that it's no longer safe to set up tents any closer.) 

Most of the company's guides are members of the Inuit community, which still hunts narwhal, according to strict quotas. They are a good source of local lore, and are very knowledgeable about the region’s wildlife.

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

On a misty day, we spent the afternoon wandering past icebergs like "frozen sculptures". On other days, we went kayaking, and I tried snorkelling in the –2°C water, wearing a black drysuit and "lobster-shaped" gloves. One day, a "huge" male polar bear passed right in front of us, and I saw plenty of other marvellous wildlife besides, including little auks, terns, skuas, a "curious" Arctic fox ("whose cheeks looked as though they had been painted with blusher"), and ringed seals "of every shape and size" leaping in and out of ice holes. 

The week-long trip costs about £1,600. Visit arctickingdom.com for details. 

Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox

A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com

Talking Point

By The Week UK Published 28 April 24

The Week's daily crossword

By The Week Staff Published 28 April 24

The Week's daily hard sudoku puzzle

The Week Recommends The author's account of ordeal which cost him his eye is both 'scary and heartwarming'

By The Week Staff Published 27 April 24

Feature The horror novelist recommends works by Stephen King, Gillian Flynn, and more

By The Week US Published 23 April 24

Feature Featuring a 14-car showroom in Oregon and a Bentley-style apartment in Florida

By The Week Staff Published 23 April 24

Features Featuring a four-level Shaker barn in Hartland and a Scandinavian-inspired home in Stowe

By The Week US Published 16 April 24

Feature The linguist recommends works by Mary Roach, Alice Carrière, and more

Feature The author recommends works by Patricia Highsmith, Shirley Jackson, and more

By The Week US Published 9 April 24

Feature Featuring a suspended fireplace in Arizona and a marine-themed home in Maine

By The Week Published 9 April 24

The Week Recommends Forget the potatoes for this gnocchi made of the 'classic combination' of spinach and ricotta

By The Week UK Published 7 April 24

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Advertise With Us

The Week is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

• About the ATTA

Sustainability

• Our Initiatives
• Adventure Travel Conservation Fund
• Leadership & Team
• Internship Program
• Business Development
• Global Travel News
• Industry Spotlight
• Industry Voices
• Member News
• Regional News
• B2B Marketing
• Signature Events
• Market Activation
• Climate Action
• Storytelling
• B2C Marketing
• Event Calendar
• AdventureELEVATE Latin America 2024
• AdventureELEVATE Europe 2024
• AdventureELEVATE North America 2024
• AdventureWeek Finland 2024
• Climate Action Summit 2024
• AdventureWeek Okinawa 2024
• AdventureNEXT Fiji 2024
• AdventureConnect
• ATTA on the Road / Virtual
• Expert Nomination & Topic Suggestions
• Events Sustainability
• Sustainability Resource Center
• On-Demand / Webinars
• Inspiration
• Guide Standard
• Global Payment Resource
• Free Community Membership
• Become a Member
• ATTA Ambassadors
• Active Members
• Adventure Champions
• Community Books
• Case Studies

Shopping Cart

Shopping cart items, the future of adventure travel in the wake of covid-19.

In late September 2020, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) partnered with Oliver Wyman to release a report entitled To Recovery & Beyond: The Future of Travel & Tourism in the Wake of COVID-19 . The report includes extensive data-driven research and details on the impact COVID-19 has had and will continue to have on the global travel industry. The trends and policy recommendations highlighted in the report are very useful guidelines that can be applied to all areas of the tourism industry.

Demand Evolution

This finding matches evidence from the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA)’s U.S. Adventure Traveler Sentiment - June-July 2020 Report , released in late July 2020. As of June/July 2020, 63% of U.S. adventure travelers were planning on traveling domestically on their next planned trip. The same travelers are seeking safe and relaxing destinations with nature, outdoor, and adventure activities. In fact, this survey found that 72% of adventure travelers are planning on doing nature and outdoor activities on their next trip, specifically hiking/trekking/walking, cycling (road/paved surface), and camping.

According to ATTA’s report mentioned previously, adventure travelers also often visit the countryside (rural areas), small towns/villages/resort communities, and national and state parks and reserves, all ideal destinations for social distancing. In fact, respondents stated that they are more likely to visit national and state parks and reserves, rarely visited destinations and sites that are accessible but not commonly visited, and remote destinations. Following this trend, they are less likely to visit cities/urban areas and popular/busy destinations.

Health & Hygiene

According to the WTTC report , “Health, safety and trust are paramount in this new era. Personal experiences, the fear of being stuck in another country, and concerns for distancing will guide consumer behaviour in the short- to mid-term. Businesses will have to collaborate even more closely with their extended value chains to ensure readiness.”

This again matches findings from ATTA’s U.S. Adventure Traveler Sentiment - June-July 2020 Report . U.S. adventure travelers are concerned about COVID-19, but the level of concern is lower for those visiting more remote destinations.

The most common precautions all adventure travelers are looking for from their end destination include social distancing measures and enhanced safety protocols. To reach this goal, adventure travelers expect businesses to adequately equip and provide resources and training to their staff and guides; publish enhanced safety protocols on their website, including what will happen to travelers if they show any symptoms; implement enhanced safety protocols; ensure all suppliers they work with to also adhere to enhanced safety standards and protocols, and decrease the use of shared resources and equipment with the aim to prevent virus spread. Overall, adventure travelers expect transparent and timely COVID-19 related communications, flexible cancellation and refund policies, and contactless transaction options as often as possible.

As with the demand evolution trends discussed above, adventure travel is well-suited to this requirement. In addition to the prevalence of activity opportunities allowing for social distancing, multiple reputable organizations have created guidelines for adventure companies to improve and refine their health and safety measures. WTTC’s Safe Travels Global Protocols and Stamp initiative is one important way travel organizations can demonstrate their commitment to safety. The WTTC’s adventure travel specific protocols were informed by and align with ATTA’s Health & Safety Guidelines . ATTA offers guidelines for ten different adventure travel activities at no cost, along with a digital badge for operators to show their adherence. For adventure companies looking for more formal education, ATTA’s online Safety & Risk Management course is designed to take adventure travel operators and managers through the complete process of setting up and running a safety management system in their operation.

Innovation & Digitization

The WTTC report found that “COVID-19 is proving to be an unexpected catalyst in the Travel & Tourism sector’s quest for innovation and the integration of new technologies. Amid stay-at-home orders, digital adoption and consumption are on the rise, with consumers now expecting contactless technologies, among others, as a basic prerequisite for a safe and seamless travel experience.”

The trend toward technology adoption is nothing new in the travel industry; even before COVID-19, adventure tour operators were responding to this need. In ATTA’s 2019 Industry Snapshot Report , 50% of respondents stated they had an online reservation system that took credit cards; in the 2020 Industry Snapshot Report (to be released in December 2020), this number increased to 60%. The report also found that the percentage of bookings received through online distribution systems varies:

Technology is only going to increase in importance; however, adventure travel still has opportunities to improve in this area. Many technological solutions exist. ATTA payment partner Flywire , for example, offers flexible ways to accept online payments while reducing associated costs and fees for the merchant.

The final trend identified in the WTTC report says, “From widespread unemployment and anti-racism movements to the restoration of natural habitats, the world has been reinvigorated to tackle social, environmental, and institutional sustainability. In particular, heightened public awareness of wildlife markets and poaching has boosted advocacy for wildlife protection.”

Again, adventure travel is ideally positioned for this trend. ATTA’s upcoming 2020 Industry Snapshot report (to be released in early December) found that even before COVID-19, adventure travel demand has been trending toward greener, more sustainable, low-impact itineraries. ‘Slow travel’ itineraries have also been increasing in popularity, with travelers seeking an unrushed, deeper connection with nature and the destination.

ATTA’s U.S. Adventure Traveler Sentiment - June-July 2020 Report found that in contrast to the general U.S. consumer, U.S. adventure travelers are significantly more likely to engage in green activities (e.g., recycling, reducing food waste and plastics use, using sustainable packaging and purchasing sustainably-produced items, etc.) than the general U.S. consumer. Following this, when it comes to travel plans, U.S. adventure travelers are also more likely to factor environmental considerations into their decision-making process. Overall, they are more worried about climate change, want to know if their spending helps fight the climate crisis, and feel they can make a difference with their actions and choices. 

To support adventure companies in acting on their care for climate, ATTA enables small businesses to purchase credible offsets at a reduced price through its Neutral Together carbon offsetting bulk purchase program. For those businesses ready to embrace the fourth pillar of climate action strategy: Measure, Reduce, Offset and Remove, ATTA has is incubating Tomorrow’s Air , a carbon removal collective with affordable subscription levels for individual travelers and small business company founders.

Adventure travel also offers hope to wildlife tourism. Surveys of adventure travelers repeatedly find birdwatching and safaris to be top activities for this market segment. Organizations like ANIMONDIAL encourage and support sustainable tourism that protects animal welfare, and initiatives like the New Big 5 project promote admiring wild animals through a camera lens, not a rifle scope.

Moving Forward

After identifying these four key trends, the WTTC report discusses ways that travelers, businesses, communities, and the workforce can adapt and respond to changing traveler requirements. Then, it calls out the next three steps for the travel industry to move forward: 1. Make it through the crisis, 2. Adapt to the new normal, and 3. Cultivate resilience. Their findings go into detail on many important implications surrounding the effects of COVID-19 on the travel industry; adventure travel recommendations are highlighted below. 

Implement Health & Safety Standards

It is clear that travelers are looking for transparent and timely measures to guarantee as safe a trip as possible. As mentioned above, two free resources tourism businesses can use to respond to this need are WTTC’s Safe Travels Global Protocols and Stamp and ATTA’s Health & Safety Guidelines and Badge . For more in-depth instruction, ATTA’s online Safety & Risk Management course offers training on a more comprehensive process of setting up and running a safety management system in an operation. 

Prioritize Destination Readiness

Travelers want to know that not only are their individual service providers taking health and safety measures; they want to feel confident that the destination is safe overall. This applies not only to popular destinations, but also to secondary, tertiary, and rural locations that are more likely to attract adventure travelers. Private and public sectors and communities will all need to come together to show a unified message of preparedness and resilience. Regions can be especially conscious of destinations that were hit hardest by the pandemic, and focus efforts and resources on recovery in these areas. 

Use Technology

Demand for contactless convenience is on the rise, as digital devices are prevalent throughout the globe, and consumers are looking for ways to complete transactions in a safe and efficient manner. Adventure travel companies can respond by investing in technology upgrades to improve their contact journey with guests, many of which can be done quickly and affordably. Payments, check-ins, itinerary information, and more can all be processed and delivered easily and digitally. Technology can also be used to attract more guests, with virtual tours and videos to showcase attractions and services, social media to spread the word, and online booking and payment capabilities. Again, this also applies to smaller and less popular destinations; governments must ensure that both residents and visitors have access to the infrastructure to meet these technological requirements.

Protect People and the Environment

Most important of all, a focus on protecting people and the environment is essential. Fair treatment of Indigenous and local peoples, efforts to eradicate human and wildlife trafficking, and sustainable recovery tactics are non-negotiable priorities as tourism rebuilds. Destinations must support SMEs to keep them financially afloat and address ways to focus on travel businesses that keep money in their local economies. Again, cooperation between the public and private sectors and local communities will open discussions and allow the tourism ecosystem to thrive. Communities need to be part of the conversation and the solutions so that future overtourism can be addressed now during this most unlikely and unbelievably pause in travel. And, finally, the education of, communication to, and the nurturing of an environmentally-conscious traveler must be a priority.

In Conclusion

Maintaining the natural world for future generations of travelers must be a priority for all tourism businesses, and COVID-19 has catalyzed many movements in this direction. The resulting shift toward local and domestic tourism, demand for more rural and socially distanced itineraries, and  sustainability is a shift that adventure tourism is already poised to fulfill. Adventure travel providers need to work on innovating in other areas, especially technology, but overall the industry is trending in the right direction.

Will Disneyland get an Avatar land? It’s likely. Here’s what else may be in store

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

With the city of Anaheim unanimously voting to pass DisneylandForward , the Disneyland Resort will be forever changed.

Twice in the last 69 years, Disneyland has been significantly transformed. Four years after the park opened in 1959, Disneyland added its monorail, the Matterhorn Bobsleds and a submarine ride and expanded Autopia. It was a message that would begin to fulfill Walt Disney’s promise that Disneyland would never be completed.

Huge Disneyland expansion to add new rides, restaurants and hotels wins OK

Anaheim City Council approves a plan to amend zoning rules to allow Disneyland to build new rides, hotels and stores within its existing footprint.

April 17, 2024

More than that, however, it revealed that Disneyland would continue to look to the future. Disneyland in 1959 showed its guests possibilities — a transportation system in the monorail that could remake urban communities, a tease of the freeway system that would reshape travel and a glimpse at the sort of deep-sea excursions only a lucky few could witness. The Matterhorn, while inspired by the film “Third Man on the Mountain,” also was meant to be a transportive experience, to not only bring to Disneyland a new kind of thrill ride but give visitors a taste of international adventure.

Disneyland’s second reimagining came much later. In 2001 the Walt Disney Co. would open Disney California Adventure, the Grand Californian hotel and the Downtown Disney District. These additions would attempt to make Disneyland, the company’s original park, one that could, in theory, rival Florida’s Walt Disney World by becoming a resort that could demand multiday stays.

This expansion succeeded as well, but not overnight.

The original vision of Disney California Adventure proved to be lackluster, relying heavily on on-the-shelf rides and lacking emotion-driven experiences that take visitors out of their daily life. While the Grand Californian is a Craftsman-inspired triumph, Downtown Disney is in the midst of a transformation and is still attempting to outgrow its reputation as a home for chains and midtier eateries.

And now we’re entering a new era of possibilities, one that likely will look much different from the prior two. Modern Disney is centered on intellectual property — or IP, in corporate speak — rather than Walt-era idealism, and the most tantalizing prospects of DisneylandForward center on building around existing structures rather than erecting a new park.

With DisneylandForward, the company won the flexibility to redesign the resort. Zoning rules will be amended so that Disney can add new attractions alongside hotels on the west side of Disneyland Drive. These will, if they come to fruition, likely be extensions of Disneyland or Disney California Adventure rather than a third park. Additionally, a new shopping, dining and entertainment district can be created to the southeast on what is currently the Toy Story parking lot at Katella Avenue and Harbor Boulevard.

Company brass and the DisneylandForward materials have offered teases of what could be built. Most of these have centered on recent expansions at Disney’s international parks, such as the World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland or Zootopia at Shanghai Disney Resort. There’s been little ideological talk about the future of Disneyland, as the focus has centered squarely on popular properties and franchises rather than the resort’s status as a cultural hub and gathering space.

But DisneylandForward came with a pledge. The Walt Disney Co. has promised to spend a minimum of $1.9 billion on Disneyland attractions, lodging, entertainment, shopping and dining in the next 10 years. That money can go quickly, with modern attractions costing sometimes in the high six figures, but the Walt Disney Co. also is in the midst of doubling down on its theme parks. Disney has guaranteed to spend $60 billion over the next 10 years in its experiences division, with at least half of that total dedicated to parks and resorts, according to a recent SEC filing .

It’s safe to say that the next 10 years will shape Disneyland for decades to come. While there’s much to be revealed, there are, perhaps, some safe bets. Here are a few educated guesses as to what to expect with an expanded Disneyland in the near term.

Get ready for Pandora

DisneylandForward materials reference everything from “Tangled” to “Peter Pan” to “Tron” as possible experiences that could come to Anaheim. One word, however, is missing, and it’s one that’s been regularly referenced by Disney brass in recent weeks: “Avatar.”

Disney CEO Bob Iger mentioned it at a recent shareholder meeting, even sharing the “Avatar” concept art, which was referred to as “inspirational artwork.” Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, wrote in a blog post after the shareholder event that further news on Disneyland-related attractions such as the “Avatar” experience was tied to the approval of DisneylandForward.

“We are excited about the stories our guests could experience at Walt’s original theme park destination after approval of DisneylandForward — including the chance to experience all-new Avatar adventures with a visit to Pandora,” D’Amaro wrote . And last night in Anaheim, Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock again teased “Avatar” at the DisneylandForward hearing and vote. Finally, one of Disney’s most respected theme park creatives even posted the “Avatar” concept art on Instagram , expressing the hope of sharing more on the project in the future.

Travel & Experiences

Want to see Disneyland’s most advanced animatronics? Visit Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

With new droids at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and some of the most lifelike characters ever created at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Disney is looking to wow guests.

April 4, 2024

Consider a large-scale “Avatar”-inspired land all but a done deal, and the art shared for Disneyland isn’t an exact replica of Florida’s Pandora — The World of Avatar, which resides in that coast’s Animal Kingdom park. Now where to put it? Expect Pandora to be bound for Disney California Adventure. There’s been speculation that it could replace the area currently served by water ride Grizzly River Run or move into a largely vacant slot of Hollywood Land, but neither is ideal. The latter requires a rerouting of the monorail, and Grizzly River Run remains a popular attraction.

Here’s betting it’s positioned in one of the DCA expansion areas near the Pixar Place Hotel, as that would allow the company to give the James Cameron property a plethora of space, especially if Disney must hide a large show building behind an illusion of floating mountains.

Expect more hotel options

With Disneyland lacking the acreage of Florida’s Walt Disney World, hotel prices in Anaheim are at a premium. Rooms for the recently revamped Pixar Place Hotel — Anaheim’s “budget” option — can routinely top $500 per night. More hotel space is needed, and if Disneyland goes all-in on “Avatar,” expect lodging and more entertainment options to follow close behind. Disney has long touted development of the Toy Story Lot as prime space for hotel, dining and entertainment modeled after Florida’s Disney Springs district.

The DisneylandForward materials mention the land as “the perfect location to cater to locals, conventioneers, hotel and Disneyland Resort guests with restaurants, hotels, live music, shopping, ticketed shows and theme park experiences.” A new proposed parking structure to the north would solve the parking issue, and Disney has done extensive research on this already, as it was part of an earlier, pre-pandemic planned development known as the “Eastern Gateway.”

Walkways to and from the new parking structure would connect the current resort to the new entertainment area. And while fans may want Disney to rapidly fill the available space with theme park attractions, if the resort is planning to increase capacity it’s first going to need a spot for those guests to park. Additionally, Iger at a recent media event said the company likely would hold back some of its theme park funds so the organization could move on the popularity of new films or franchises.

“We actually have a fairly good idea in the near term of what’s being built, but we’re purposefully not going to allocate it all,” Iger said. “Because who knows? In five years we can end up with a giant hit movie — think ‘Frozen’ — that we may want to mine essentially as an attraction, or a hotel or restaurant in our parks. So you want to maintain some flexibility.”

What about ‘Frozen’s’ Arendelle? Or a ‘Coco’-themed experience?

Beyond “Avatar,” which seems a sure thing as it’s been mentioned by Iger on multiple occasions, any future aspects of DisneylandForward become pure speculation. But a couple of franchises may have higher priority than others.

Disney now has a “Frozen” attraction in Walt Disney World, a land in Hong Kong and experiences in the works for Disneyland Paris and Tokyo DisneySea. Walt Disney Imagineering, the company’s secretive arm devoted to theme park experiences, clearly has done the work on bringing “Frozen” to life in physical spaces, and it stands to reason that expansions to the original Disneyland Park, with its fairy-tale feel, would go more of a Fantasyland-inspired route.

What’s more, re-creating Arendelle in the expansion plots located near the Disneyland Hotel would give Disney the opportunity to construct a second castle, as any extensive changes to park centerpiece Sleeping Beauty Castle are prohibited due to structural limitations . The enduring popularity of “Frozen” seems relatively assured at this point, so bringing the franchise to Disneyland is far from a risk.

The unmissable addition to Disneyland’s Star Tours ride? Space whales

Star Tours has become one of Disneyland’s most versatile attractions, and its latest update nods to series such as ‘The Mandalorian,’ ‘Ahsoka’ and ‘Andor.’

April 9, 2024

But if the company opts to create something unique for Southern California rather than importing Hong Kong’s World of Frozen or Shanghai’s Zootopia, one franchise that seems to be routinely brought up by executives is “Coco.” When mentioning blue-sky concepts last year year at an investor event in Florida, D’Amaro teased “Coco” as a key film that has yet to be properly explored in the Disney parks.

Potrock again mentioned “Coco” in an op-ed in the Orange County Register touting the benefits of DisneylandForward, writing that the initiative could pave the way for “the chance to celebrate Dia de Los Muertos in a ‘Coco’-themed experience.” Disney California Adventure, of course, is home to a Dia de Los Muertos celebration that does center a short “Coco” show, and the property seems especially ripe for Southern California and our heavily Latino communities. That makes it an opportunity to give Disneyland an unique land not found in other parks while also tapping into the region’s diverse fan base. Walt’s original park deserves no less as it looks ahead to closing out its first century.

More to Read

Why Disney is doubling down on theme parks with a $60-billion plan

April 24, 2024

Column: Disneyland just promised electric cars at Autopia. Gas will be gone by 2026

April 19, 2024

Disneyland’s $1.9-billion expansion project is latest mega investment in the Anaheim resort

Sign up for The Wild

We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Todd Martens joined the Los Angeles Times in 2007 and covers a mix of interactive entertainment (video games) and pop music. Previously, Martens reported on the music business for Billboard Magazine. He has contributed to numerous books, including “The Big Lebowski: An Illustrated, Annotated History of the Greatest Cult Film of All Time.” He continues to torture himself by rooting for the Chicago Cubs and, while he likes dogs, he is more of a cat person.

More From the Los Angeles Times

How to have the best Sunday in L.A., according to Laufey

April 26, 2024

World & Nation

Venice tests 5-euro entry fee for day-trippers as the city grapples with over-tourism

April 25, 2024

This must be Larchmont

What to know about California’s new state park, a scenic green space where two rivers meet

April 23, 2024

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

• nagpur News

Cruise over Narmada set to take tourists on a 120km adventure

Visual Stories

Welcome back to our Saturday edition! Wait — don't put down that yummy dessert. One 38-year-old woman told Business Insider that instead of skipping treats, she lost 140 pounds in two years by eating more high-protein foods.

That's great news for foodies like myself. Keep reading for more good news to kick-start your weekend.

On the agenda:

"Stopover" programs let travelers explore between connecting flights .

What it's like to work with a life coach who charges $400 a month .

"Challengers" turned Zendaya and the cast into tennis stars .

Two lifestyle adjustments helped one woman lose 55 pounds .

But first: Power lunches are back, baby.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here . Download Insider's app here.

This week's dispatch

Power hungry (literally).

It's no secret that many deals are made outside of the boardroom.

In 2013, Jeff Bezos famously secured The Washington Post for $250 million while traipsing around Hailey, Idaho during the Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference. That's where billionaires and other business types strike deals while competing in tennis matches, going on guided hikes, and yes, eating lunch.

You don't have to be a billionaire to capitalize on a midday meeting, though. Enter: the power lunch. (Or should I say "remember the power lunch"?)

As the call to return to the office slowly drags on, many are taking advantage of what can happen over a nice meal.

One BI reporter went to Cecconi's in West Hollywood to find out why the Soho House-owned restaurant has been a mainstay for power-lunchers for 15 years. Her review is the first of many stories that will dig into some of the hottest power-lunch spots across the country.

Although she had a mixed review of the menu, what remains true is that productivity isn't just reserved for the office.

Score a "stopover" flight

Need a vacation within your vacation? Some travelers make it happen by booking long layovers. That gives them time to leave the airport and explore for a few hours — or days — before the next flight.

Known as "stopover" programs, airlines benefit from this hack, too. Plus, the layovers can sometimes come with free or discounted hotels, excursions, transportation, and food at the layover destination.

How to book the long layovers .

You'll soon be able to get an automatic refund when your flight is delayed or canceled

It's time to invest in yourself

BI's investing correspondent finally took the advice she's written so much about and invested in herself. She spends $400 a month on a life coach, a splurge she said is some of the best money she's ever spent.

She and her coach have met weekly for the past nine months. The coach has helped her write speeches, navigate cross-country moves, and held her accountable for the things she wants to accomplish.

What it's like to hire a life coach .

From movie star to tennis star

"Challengers," a steamy new drama that premiered Friday, stars 27-year-old Zendaya, who transformed into a tennis pro for the film.

Tennis coach Brad Gilbert served as a consultant on the film, training Zendaya and her costars. He told BI what the cast endured — from spending hours playing tennis to packing on muscle — to play the part.

Everything it takes to become an on-screen tennis pro .

Easy lifestyle changes for weight loss

Megan Tjelle, a 29-year-old from Chicago, was athletic as a kid, but became less active after starting nursing school. Throughout her 20s, she said, her weight increased and her confidence sank.

In 2022, she made two small changes: eating a balanced diet in a calorie deficit, and gradually moving more. Over six months, through diet and walking alone, Tjelle lost 55 pounds.

How small changes can have big results .

I hate cottage cheese but I tried stirring it into my meals for an extra dose of protein. I felt my gym performance improve.

What we're watching this weekend

"MILF Manor": The second season of the controversial show — wherein moms date each other's sons — is even messier than the first. It's streaming on Hulu.

"The Doomsday Cult of Antares de la Luz": Former members of a Chilean cult speak out about their experiences in the new Netflix series.

"We're Here": In this wholesome Max series, famous drag queens travel to small-town America where they give out makeovers.

See the full list .

More of this week's top reads:

A billionaire's son shares how wealth affected how he dated and made friends .

The hottest hotel rooms right now are tents and RVs .

Differences between parenting in the US and Germany, according to an American mom .

A student studying abroad is shocked by how many lavish trips her peers take .

Following his brother's death, he decided to live a life of adventure .

Meet Tree Paine, the PR mastermind helping steer the massive Taylor Swift machine .

Cathay Pacific's first-class lounge will make you forget you're in an airport .

Traveling full-time isn't worth it, according to a woman who did it for nine months .

The Insider Today team: Joi-Marie McKenzie , editor-in-chief, in New York. Jordan Parker Erb , editor, in New York. Dan DeFrancesco , deputy editor and anchor, in New York. Lisa Ryan , executive editor, in New York.

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

• Main content

Students get a ‘Jumpstart’ on their careers in Dallas

Uc blue ash students experience transformative travel on their path to lindner.

Students from Carl H. Lindner College of Business’ Jumpstart program — a pipeline between UC Blue Ash and the business college that provides students with additional support toward transitioning into a bachelor’s degree program — experienced a whirlwind visit to Dallas during spring break 2024.

The group of 12 students balanced a packed schedule of professional development and networking with cultural and tourist experiences. Sponsored by Deloitte, students connected with Lindner alumni and employer partners throughout the four-day trip.

Arun Murthy, BBA '95, (center) offered students advice on actions they can take now that will create positive impact for their futures.

Day one: Diving right in

Day one brought a visit to the Charles Schwab corporate campus where students met with Lindner alumnus  Arun Murthy , BBA ’95.

After a tour of the campus, students engaged in a Q&A session with Murthy to gain his insights on what they should be doing right now to prepare them for the next phase of their educational and career journeys. 

Murthy encouraged the young professionals to “keep your eyes open” and pay attention to what piques their interest. But Murthy’s greatest advice to students was to get involved and be open to meeting and getting to know new people.

After finishing their day with a visit to the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum for reflection and remembrance, and an evening in the Discovery District of Dallas for dinner and exploration, students looked to a second day packed with adventure. 

Day two: A non-stop adventure

I think one of the reasons that I probably succeeded in this type of environment was my ability to connect and the relationships that I made with the people I interviewed with. It wasn't just transactional. It's very relational in nature.

Kasey Beiting Campus recruiting specialist, Deloitte

Day two’s itinerary featured visits to the American Airlines corporate campus, Deloitte University and AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, to learn about sales and sports marketing.

First on the list: American Airlines.

Led by Scott Mallory, a campus recruiter for the company, students toured the expansive headquarters asking questions along the way about everything from employee benefits to navigating career changes.

“One of the most significant lessons I learned was the unpredictability of your professional career,” said Manuel Chacon Molina, who is interested in studying international business upon transferring to Lindner. “Observing individuals like Scott Mallory at American Airlines, who began in human resources and progressed across various departments, has reinforced the notion that while academic foundations are crucial, practical experience is fundamental for professional growth.”

Jumpstart students enjoyed their tour of the American Airlines' corporate headquarters.

For Abybatou Diop, a first-year  Jumpstart  student interested in supply chains and international business, the experience was transformative.

“The American Airlines company tour profoundly changed my perspective on the business world, igniting a passion within me," Diop said. "This experience was life-altering, pushing me to think beyond my previous limits. I am forever grateful for the inspiration it has given.” 

Still in awe from their first tour of the day, students had even more in store as they headed to Deloitte University, the training grounds for all Deloitte employees.

Students were welcomed by a committee of Deloitte representatives, including several from Cincinnati who made the trip to Dallas to connect with the Jumpstart students. 

Jeff Suttle, director, client relations, led students on a facility tour and provided an overview of the purpose of Deloitte University and how it helps the organization to continuously grow and invest in its employees.

Students enjoyed lunch alongside company representatives Jim Sowar, managing partner, Kasey Beiting, campus recruiting specialist, and Zach Wall, audit senior manager. Afterward, Sowar, Beiting and Wall engaged with students in a more formalized Q&A session, providing advice for how to prepare for their future careers, identifying their ideal career path and challenges they may face along their journey.  

“In the first couple of years, I wasn't sure what my path to take, but it was really diving in and owning the fact that, if I'm going to be successful, I'm going to have to work hard, I'm going have to put my head down at times that I might not want to,” Wall told students. “But ultimately, that's the way to meeting that goal on that path.”

Deloitte representatives Kasey Beiting (left), campus recruiting specialist, Zach Wall (center), audit senior manager, and Jim Sower (right), managing partner, engaged in a Q&A session with students at Deloitte University.

As an active leader in the campus recruitment process for Deloitte, Beiting was able to offer the students an insider’s point of view on how to approach the interview process.

“I think one of the reasons that I probably succeeded in this type of environment was my ability to connect and the relationships that I made with the people I interviewed with,” said Beiting. “It wasn't just transactional. It's very relational in nature.”

With nearly 40 years of experience in the tax industry, and more than 20 years with Deloitte, Sowar hammered home this point for students.

“Is this candidate going to be able to not only maintain relationships but grow relationships and create new relationships that will lead to new business?” Sowar said of what Deloitte is looking for in its employees. “And that gets into what kind of personal skills do you have? Can you carry out a conversation? Are you asking interesting questions? How do you interact with people in a group setting and so forth? We do notice those things, and I think they really stand up.”  

The themes of leadership and relationships expressed by Wall, Beiting and Sowar resonated heavily with students as they thought about their own career trajectories.

“Deloitte's emphasis on nurturing leadership qualities and continuous improvement resonated deeply with me,” said Chacon Molina. “The immersive experience at Deloitte University, allied to a rigorous training program, helps individuals not just with job-specific skills but also with the mindset and capabilities to lead effectively.”

Students took in city views at the Reunion Tower Observation Deck.

Students’ attention then turned to a more light-hearted adventure: a tour of AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys. But, before the fun began, the group stopped to connect with Bohn Crain, account executive with the AT&T Stadium sales team.

Crain’s energy and passion for his career path radiated over the students as they took in his message and holy grail advice: network, network, network.

Crain discussed his mission to meet one new person per day and encouraged students to take on the same challenge, as you never know where that connection may lead. Students were able to put this advice into immediate use as they connected with members of the Lindner Career Services team over dinner at Kitchen & Kocktails, a Black-owned business in the heart of Dallas.

Day three: Making connections

The final day of the trip allowed students to continue bonding with one another as they explored all Dallas has to offer, including the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Reunion Tower Observation Deck. Through these experiences, students were able to form new bonds and identify new ways that they may support each other into the future, both personally and professionally.

“I thought Dallas was a great experience for the students. They were able to see what their futures could look like, the places that their degree could take them,” said Abbey Wulf, academic adviser to the Jumpstart program. “It was rewarding to see them engaging with different companies and asking them questions. I think they also bonded with one another over this experience and their time together. I personally hope that the bonds created during this trip remain. That they now have people they can lean on at UC Blue Ash and in Lindner once they transition and after graduation.”

Lasting impact and looking forward 

The idea behind the Jumpstart program is to plant seeds and watch them grow. By encouraging our students to constantly show up and just do it, no matter how hard it is — a course, a test, a project — we help to push them further so they can thrive.

Arielle Betts Program coordinator, Office of Inclusive Excellence

Top of mind for both students and employers throughout the company visits: diversity, a topic near and dear to many Jumpstart participants’ experiences.

“The most important thing that I learned from our experience in Dallas was how much businesses are in search of diversity and how important it is for them to have as much diversity as possible. Diversity can help them reach their highest peak of success,” said marketing major Cris Mejia-Sanchez.

According to Arielle Betts , the program coordinator behind Jumpstart from Lindner’s Office of Inclusive Excellence , this experience represents another cornerstone of the foundation of the program and what she hopes to achieve with it.

“The idea behind the Jumpstart program is to plant seeds and watch them grow," Betts said. "By encouraging our students to constantly show up and just do it, no matter how hard it is — a course, a test, a project — we help to push them further so they can thrive.”

Featured image at top: Jumpstart students pose with company representatives from Deloitte at the Deloitte University campus. Photos/Haley Fite.

Building a pipeline from UC Blue Ash to Lindner

The University of Cincinnati Jumpstart program helps students enrolled in the UC Blue Ash Pre-Business Administration program transition into the Bachelor in Business Administration program at the Carl H. Lindner College of Business . This program builds students’confidence as they transition to UC’s Clifton Campus through a variety of resources, including academic support, staff guidance, informative and impactful workshops, and opportunities to connect with other students and build community.

• Lindner Diversity & Inclusion
• Blue Ash College
• Lindner College of Business
• Career-Services
• Undergraduate-Programs
• Experience-based Learning
• Student Experience

Related Stories

April 23, 2024

Lindner honors 2022-23 student award winners

April 4, 2023

The Carl H. Lindner College of Business held its Student Awards reception in Lindner Hall on April 3 to recognize its standout future business problem solvers for the 2022-23 academic year.

Lindner recognizes 2022-23 faculty and staff award winners

April 13, 2023

The Carl H. Lindner College of Business touted its award-winning faculty and staff from the 2022-23 academic year in a reception April 12 at Lindner Hall.

Essential Lobnya

Lobnya Is Great For

Eat & drink.

Art & history

• Boutique-Hotel Mona
• Iceberg House
• Villa Mini Hotel
• Sharl Aznavur
• Restaurant Venezia
• Moscow Defensive Line 1941
• Monument Veteran 1943
• Temple of the Divine Savior
• Cultural Center Krasnaya Polyana
• Temple-Chapel of St. Matrona