Adventures for Anyone: September 2024

Thursday, September 19, 2024

A New Fast Five Before I Head Off to do Some in Person Research For the Future!

1. The Beehive Tombs of Oman. We've all heard about pyramids and other famous burial and temple sights around the world. We've heard all about Stonehenge, Mayan ruins and on and on. However, you almost never hear about the prehistoric tombs that dot the landscape in the desert of Oman.

Bat, Al Khutm, and Al Ayn are some of the best known of these tombs that are 15 miles from the nearest town of Ibi. There is an evolving knowledge of the tombs that are believed and tested to be anywhere from 4,000 to 7,000 years old and predating most other structures from ancient times across most of the world. The site has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since the 1980's and has been connected to Mesopotamia.

Regardless of the history, the mythology, or the puzzle of the ancient civilization that put it there; if you happen to be in Oman, check it out. I know that sounds highly unlikely, but reportedly Oman is a great vacation location.

https://theculturetrip.com/middle-east/oman/articles/omans-mysterious-beehive-tombs-are-an-archaeologists-dream

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/beehive-tombs-of-al-ayn-oman

https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/434/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g15081723-d324112-Reviews-Archaeological_Sites_of_Bat_Al_Khutm_and_Al_Ayn-Maqabil_Ad_Dhahirah_Governorate.html

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1153995932485612

2. Levada Nova Trail and Waterfalls, Madeira, Portugal. Madeira is one of the wildest places I've ever seen and it lands directly on my bucketlist. That being said, there are a lot of tricky, dangerous, long, hard trails to hike on the island. They go to some magnificent views and waterfalls, but let's face it; this is supposed to be for anyone and those adjectives aren't in the spirit of this blog.

That being said, Levada Moinho to Levada Nova and the Waterfall is one of the easier hikes in that island country. It's only five and a half miles, and it has minimal elevation gains. In Madeira that's a short easy hike. One of the things you will have along the way are amazing views, a tunnel, and the sculpted irrigation channels that are a staple in Madeira.

Madeira is one of the most mountainous islands I've ever seen and it's lush with forests and rainforest. It's a great place to visit and they are also famous for their wine. You really can't go there without taking some kind of a hike, so this one is less likely to have you laid up for a week after.

One caution. This isn't something to run out and do right now. There are currently some fire problems in the area and the trail is temporarily closed as of the beginning of August, 2024. You can keep up to date on the state of the fires on the app AllTrails.

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/portugal/madeira--2/levada-do-moinho-a-levada-nova

https://madeira-travel.madere-leguide.com/levada-nova-levada-do-moinho

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3W1tHYy4Ak

https://sayyestomadeira.com/en/levada-do-moinho-levada-nova/

https://visitmadeira.com/en/what-to-do/nature-seekers/activities/hiking/pr-7-levada-do-moinho/

3. Khao Sok National Park, Thailand. This is the 22nd National Park that was created in Thailand. That's a lot of National Parks, but as anyone can see; Thailand is an amazing place. Khao Sok is north of Phuket and despite the islands and the overwater bungalows, it's not on the shore. It's on one of the biggest lakes in the country. It's not entirely natural either. There's a huge dam called the Ratchaprapha Dam making this reservoir; Cheow lan Reservoir.

The national park is popular and definitely popular with tourists. There are tons of activities in and around the park. There's something for everyone. Whether it's hiking, fishing and boating around the islands or staying in an over water bungalow; there's a lot of things to choose from.

I spend a lot of time reading and watching videos about Thailand, and I find the most amazing things. I have to go there someday, but I really think I need a lot of time to appreciate everything there is to see in that amazing country.

https://www.thainationalparks.com/khao-sok-national-park

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g297917-d455332-Reviews-Khao_Sok_National_Park-Surat_Thani_Surat_Thani_Province.html

https://www.khaosok.com/when-to-visit/

https://www.getyourguide.com/-l2674/?cmp=ga&cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=20704891914&cq_con=153676434454&cq_term=khao%20sok%20national%20park&cq_med=&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_pos=&cq_plt=gp&campaign_id=20704891914&adgroup_id=153676434454&target_id=aud-2176326283133:kwd-10947714342&loc_physical_ms=9003419&match_type=e&ad_id=678624256057&keyword=khao%20sok%20national%20park&ad_position=&feed_item_id=&placement=&device=c&partner_id=CD951&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwl6-3BhBWEiwApN6_kjtgAmdr-kqgDY_c902hFueMUF1ADI3d_j3vgeHwZvCcAeh3BVTKthoC_68QAvD_BwE

https://www.booking.com/city/th/khao-sok.html

4. Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea), Thailand. I know, Thailand again, but they have cool stuff. North of Krabi, this cave temple was founded not too long ago for Asian traditions anyway. Originally, monks used the cave to meditate, which was a great spot; quiet and out of the way.

Today, it's a sprawling temple on a mountaintop and is stunning. The cave area is still part of the temple, as the original spot. On the outside, you find all the normal trimmings with golden Buddha and Stupa, but it's the cave that has the original items.

There are tiger statues in the cave, and to be honest they kind of remind me of "Alice in Wonderland" a bit with the grins on some of the statues' faces.

However, it's a stunning location with great things to see. Be aware, you have to climb steps to get there. Good news; it used to be worse. Bad news; there are still 1260 steps to climb to reach that gorgeous view.

https://www.jamiesphuketblog.com/2017/06/tiger-cave-temple-wat-tham-suea-krabi.html

https://www.alongdustyroads.com/posts/tiger-cave-temple-krabi-wat-tham-suea

https://www.weseektravel.com/tiger-cave-temple/

https://www.viator.com/Krabi-attractions/Tiger-Cave-Temple-Wat-Tham-Suea/d348-a2309

https://krabinature.com/tiger-cave-temple-wat-tham-seua/

5. Campione, Italy, or should I say Switzerland? Southern Switzerland and northern Italy are Alps and they are spectacular. I can honestly say, I believe they are some of the most beautiful mountains in the world. I might be biased after more than one trip to Switzerland.

Lake Lugano is one of those picturesque, beautiful spots in the world and along the southern shores of that lake, you'll find Campione. The unusual part is that about a kilometer south of Campione is where you'll find the Italian Border. The amazing historic town sits entirely inside Switzerland.

The town is known for its stunning views, a casino and amazing sights to see. Just know that it's Italy, even though its in Switzerland. I've been to the Alps multiple times. I can tell you that there's no bad place to visit in the area. But, if you want something a little different. If you happen to be enjoying the south shore of Lake Lugano, take a stop in Campione and experience a little Italy along the way.

https://togetherinswitzerland.com/campione-ditalia-an-italian-village-surrounded-by-switzerland/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g946755-Campione_d_Italia_Province_of_Como_Lombardy-Vacations.html

https://www.lakelugano.info/campione.html

https://www.explore.com/1613066/unique-waterfront-italy-town-campione-italia-hilly-hidden-gem-surrounded-switzerland/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1fqinoNiZE

There's my fast five for this week. My apologies for being a bit out of touch recently, what with some COVID and other things; it's been a bit complicated. I'm better now, and I will probably also not post next week either, because I will be out getting some great content. By the beginning of October, my life should calm down and I will have a lot of time to tell all of you about some great places to see and things to do. In the meantime, always be looking for that special someplace or something. Don't pass on opportunities. Always take time to try an Adventure for Anyone and enjoy!

Thursday, September 12, 2024

This Week's Fast Five...Some Stuff to See and Some Wild Rides! 9/12/24

1. The Katoomba Funicular Railway and Scenic World, New South Wales, Australia. Seems like a mouthful. This is a really fun day trip from Sydney, and only about an hour and a half away from the world famous city.

The Katoomba Railway was originally designed for mining. Some of my favorite attractions were built for mining, so this appealed to me. The railway was built in the 1880's and runs 310 meters up a 52 degree or 128% grade. After the mine was closed, around 1945 the railway was turned into an attraction. Over the years there have been changes made for the tourists, but the train still runs.

Scenic World was created beginning in the 1980's. The funicular was redesigned so that passengers can adjust their seats to three different settings, depending on how they want to see the magnificent view. A little comfort goes a long way, even though the ride is not that long.

Also at scenic world there's a roller coaster, a rainforest walk and more than one cable car ride. You can even take a ride on top of one of the cable cars. There's a little something for everyone at Scenic World, and the views are amazing.

Here's one amazing note. If you ride the Katoomba Railway, you will be riding the steepest railway in the entire world. It's in the Guinness Book of World Records.

2. Anza-Borrego, Borrego Springs, and Galleta Meadows, California, USA. Borrego Springs is a small town not far from the Salton Sea in Southern California. Why would you be there? Lots of people take road trips in the Southwest. I've done it. Don't judge. But, if you get out of the city, as I always suggest and get away from LA and San Diego, you might end up stopping there.

There's not a lot in this tiny desert town, but in two parks along a quiet highway, there are 130 metal sculptures. There're bears, bugs, scorpions, dinosaurs and even a giant serpent in the desert. It's something you don't see every day.

Not to mention, the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is gorgeous with desert and mountainous landscapes. There's lots of hiking, photography and art to make a great day out in Borrego Springs, California.

3. Leavenworth, Washington, USA. Are you sure it isn't Switzerland or Bavaria, Germany? Nope, it's Washington State. This little town has views inspired by and reminiscent of the Alps. Washington is a beautiful state. There's no doubt about it. This little town in the mountains about 2 hours east of Seattle is something of a novelty.

Everywhere you look in Leavenworth, it looks like Bavaria or the Bernese Oberland. The buildings are Bavarian, as are most things in this beautiful Alpine village. If you really want to get your Bavaria on, they have an Oktoberfest and a Christmas Town during the year. They also have numerous other events too.

This is a little village where you can learn ancient Bavarian crafts, taste the Bavarian food, and be immersed in Bavarian culture year round. If you want to get your German on, but don't want to go to Europe, Leavenworth, Washington is the next best thing. And don't forget to bring your nature lovers with you. Leavenworth has multitudes of outdoor activities to enjoy the heavenly scenery.

4. Koh Samui Island, Thailand. This is Thailand's third largest island. Why would I mention another island in Thailand? Well, it's just cool. This island has a lot going on.

It's famous for its resorts and beautiful beaches. That alone is enough reason for most to want to spend some time there. But, it also has beautiful temples, the most famous is Wat Phra Yai Temple with its 12 meter (40 foot) high golden Buddha.

There are tons of activities to do on the island. You can surf, snorkel, scuba dive, rent a moped or scooter, and everything imaginable. With beautiful beaches and a Four Seasons Resort, plus lots of other accommodations; there's something for everyone. If you like nightlife, this is also a great spot for you.

There are lots of great locations in Thailand. It's a fabulous country. I just suggest you add Koh Samui to your itinerary. It's a great budget spot too.

5. Take a surfing lesson at Kata Beach, Phuket, Thailand. There are some great places around the world to surf. There are some great surfing schools around the world. Why would I mention this spot? Well, as I was saying, there's a lot of great spots in Thailand. It is one of the most popular destinations in the world with travelers. Once again, don't confuse travelers with tourists.

But, Kata Beach doesn't come with a surfing school. It comes with a lot of surfing school options. There are group classes, individual training, advanced training and on and on. There are so many options, that there's an option for everyone. Not to mention, Thailand has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so the view is fine.

Phuket is also one of the most popular regions of the country for beachgoers and that's exactly where you'll find Kata Beach. It fits right in with the youthful atmosphere in Phuket. You can spend your day mastering the waves and the night mastering the clubs. It's got a great vibe and fabulous views, with all kinds of options. You can't beat that.

So, there you go. Whether you want traditional or surfing Thailand, a trip directly up the side of a mountain, the essence of Bavaria outside of Bavaria, or to take a drive through a massive art gallery in the desert; there's always something for everyone out there and Adventures for Anyone all around the world. Enjoy!

https://bluemountainstoursydney.com.au/attractions/scenic-railway/

https://www.scenicworld.com.au/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuMxv8VYlEQ

https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/62981-steepest-railway-gradient

https://www.thetravel.com/the-most-scenic-and-steepest-train-ride-in-australia/

https://underthesunfoundation.org/

https://www.borregoexperience.com/borrego-springs-metal-art-sculptures-auto-tour

https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/borrego-springs-sculptures/

https://www.abdnha.org/borrego-springs-sculptures-of-ricardo-breceda.htm

https://www.visitcalifornia.com/places-to-visit/borrego-springs/

https://leavenworth.org/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g58560-Leavenworth_Washington-Vacations.html