In 2014, childhood friends Panos Karkanias and Stavros Makris combined their passion for sustainable tourism, adventure travel, and their home country of Greece to create Bearing True South, a company that connects adventure travelers with authentic experiences. We sat down with Stavros to talk about Bearing True South, adventure tourism, and more.
What is your background in adventure travel and the outdoors? My mum is an avid traveler and made sure we spent a ton of time exploring the great outdoors growing up. After exploring most of Europe and Northern Africa while studying, I got a job working with primates in Thailand and then spent a couple of years traveling around Asia as a documentary photographer. In between assignments I’d come back to Greece and explore the national parks or go sailing with friends and in time this led to the creation of Bearing True South.
How did Bearing True South get started? Showing people around Greece is something I’ve always done. It truly brings joy to my life. When I’ve traveled, I’ve been lucky enough to have had people show me around and I’ve always felt like giving back the favor.
Bearing True South is the product of my childhood friend Panos’ academic research in sustainable tourism and my eagerness to be a part of something new. In a lot of ways we complement each other, so the whole project, from inception to realization, was pretty straightforward.
What were some of the challenges you’ve faced in starting your own company? Finding the right people to work with was the greatest challenge we faced when we were starting out. It took us the better part of 3 years to personally vet every supplier we work with and run every itinerary we designed multiple times in order to get the proper feedback.
Why adventure tourism? Most visitors to Greece tend to stay on the beaten track, which means areas affected by mass tourism. This isn’t a bad thing, but it makes having an immersive travel experience that much harder. Our philosophy is to steer our guests away from the crowds by getting them in touch with locals, showing them beautiful sights, and cooking them authentic food. That’s what adventure travel is all about for us.
What is the best way to experience Greece? Sailing in the Cyclades archipelago is a great way to spend time away from home, and no matter how many times I’m out there it’s always special. The food, the people, the ever-changing landscapes, it doesn’t get much better than that.
You’re the co-founder of Bearing True South and still guide on a regular basis. What draws you to guiding? It’s always been impossible for me to stay put, so I try to get out of the office as much as possible. Connecting with guests and ensuring they have a truly memorable trip is why I do it. Plus, the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and show them our culture, that’s why I do it.
What’s next for Bearing True South? We’re in the process of adding a few new products on our website. At the moment they’re in the research and testing phase, but I can say that they involve landscape astrophotography. We’re working together with an accomplished photographer and astrophysicist, in order to create astrophotography workshops in the national parks of southern and northern Greece starting in the summer of 2018.
Lastly, what’s your dream adventure?
Hands down, exploring Alaska. I’ve been fascinated with the state since I was a kid. I hope I can make it there in the next couple years.
To take an adventure with Bearing True South, check out the Clymb Adventures page.
Bio
Born and raised in Indiana, Brooke is an adventurer, endorphin junkie, and lover of the outdoors who has traveled to five continents. A freelance multimedia journalist, Brooke’s craft enables her the freedomto travel. Brooke is fascinated with languages and can order a coffee in Hindi, sing Swahili lullabies, and ask for directions in Mandarin.
A Dream Come True
I honestly felt like The Clymb’s Ecuador & Galapagos trip was created just for me. I loved hiking in the breathtaking Cotopaxi National Park and summiting Cotopaxi. One of the best days we had was mountain biking through the East Andes in the morning, hiking up and down a stunning waterfall, and zip-lining in the evening. If I had to choose a favorite activity from the entire trip, it would be snorkeling in the Galapagos. I just kept repeating, “este es mi sueno hecho realidad,” meaning “this is my dream made a reality.”
Packing List
My packing list is always written in orange sharpie. I start making a list from my feet up. For this excursion I knew I’d need my running shoes and Chacos. I brought active clothes suitable for a warmer climate. I could’ve used a few more warm clothes when staying in the mountain region of Ecuador. However, that gave me an excuse to buy an alpaca sweater. If I plan to shop for local or interesting clothes on a trip, I’ll purposefully not pack the items I think I’ll buy to free up room in my bag for one-of-a-kind treasures. I also always bring my water bottle and protein bars for flights. My favorite item to bring on my travels is my camera, and I never forget a set of earplugs.
Awesome Guides
Giovanni, Sebastian, and José are the best guides I have ever had the pleasure of traveling with; Adventure Journeys spoiled us with these guys! Sebastian helped me with filming and being able to go ahead of the group to get the best photo vantage points. Giovanni is an encyclopedia of information about Ecuadorian culture and environment. He even met up with me in Quito weeks after the trip had ended to show me around his hometown. José was our driver, but he was way more than that to all of us in the group. He is learning English, and is one of the most charismatic people you’ll ever meet. Santiago is an incredible freediver in the Galapagos, so we had a lot of fun snorkeling and diving around the archipelago.
Exotic Wildlife
The Galapagos archipelago has a stunning array of wildlife. Giant tortoises are found only two places in the world, and seeing these Jurassic-looking creatures up close was a true dream of mine. I snorkeled with sea turtles, sea lions, sea horses, stingrays, penguins, and blue-footed boobies. I gained a newly found love of llamas along the way too!
Travel Tips
When landing in Quito, keep in mind the airport is about 45 minutes to the city. If you’re on layover or have time to kill at the airport, head to the international terminal for a coffee from Juan Valdez Café (tell Santiago I said hello!) and strong, free Wi-Fi. Also, languages are a skill that continually need to be used and perfected. I improved my Spanish immensely on this trip. If you plan on doing some serious photography or video, pack a carbon fiber tripod. They’re lightweight and sturdy!
The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular hiking spots in the US due to its long paths and stunning views. While some people choose to avoid the Grand Canyon during summer because of the heat, most people prefer the warmth; in fact, the Grand Canyon sees more hikers in summer than it does at any other time of the year!
After all, summer has some perks going for it; the days are long, the weather is warm, and the ground is normally drier. However hiking in the sun comes with its own dangers, especially if you are hiking the Grand Canyon.
Don’t let your summer hike turn into a dangerous ordeal. Here are five tips for hiking in the Grand Canyon in summer.
1. Be Aware Of The Heat
At the risk of sounding like a broken record: the most important thing you must remember when hiking in the Grand Canyon is how hot it can get. Many hikers assume that the inside of the basin will be as warm as the rim, but it can actually be around 50 degrees hotter.
If you only realize this when in the basin, you’ll be confronted with a tough uphill hike in extreme temperatures. This can be very dangerous, so make sure to keep the heat in mind at all times when you are hiking.
2. Set Off Early
It’s always important to set off early so that you can avoid the mid-afternoon heat, but this is extra important if you are hiking in the Grand Canyon. As the area is so open and exposed there is very little in the way of shelter, so a tough trek through the heat could leave you with sunstroke.
It’s also normally quieter in the mornings so your hike will be more peaceful and relaxing, and you will really be able to take in the stunning views!
3. Take Breaks To Rest
Don’t forget to take regular rest breaks. Hiking is a strenuous activity at the best of times, and adding hot temperatures into the mix can be a recipe for disaster. Make sure to look out for shaded areas when you are hiking, and if you see one take a break to sit down and drink some water.
4. Bring Water And Salty Snacks
Everyone should bring water with them on a hike, but you may want to pack twice as much if you are heading into the Grand Canyon. You should also pack some high-calorie salty snacks, such as energy bars or trail mix. These snacks will help to replace your electrolytes as you hike, and they will give you the energy that you need to hike back up the basin. Make sure that you alternate between water and snacks to avoid stomach cramps.
5. Wear A Bandana
A bandana will protect your head, forehead, and neck from the extreme heat, which is very useful as it can be hard to find shade and sheltered areas. If you find yourself getting warm you can take the bandana off and wet it before putting it back on, as this will help cool you down.
The Grand Canyon is also sandy and it can get quite windy so you can use your bandana to protect your mouth and nose. You can even use the bandana to blow your nose (might want extras if you do), wipe your hands, or dry the back of your neck; this small item has many different benefits.
Chances are, some of the most thrilling and beautiful places on the planet are located in countries whose languages you don’t speak. Are you going to let that dissuade you from exploring every inch of the globe? Of course not. You’re just going to make some smart moves in advance to ensure a successful and enjoyable excursion.
Sign on for a Tour
You can reduce the guess work immeasurably by taking up with an adventure tour. The leaders of your expedition won’t expect you to know the lingo. They’ll do a lot of the speaking and arranging for you. This is a requirement, anyway, for many of the globe’s most iconic natural wonders—lots of national parks around the world frown on letting you just hike up the side of a mountain unaccompanied—so you can focus on the beauty of nature surrounding you, not the confusion of feeling adrift.
Learn Some Basic Phrases
Wherever you go, it’s helpful to know roughly how to express distances, directional words, and other navigational stuff in the most widely spoken language of the area. You might not ever get separated from the group, but it will be immensely helpful should you find yourself in an emergency situation demanding interaction with rescue authorities. Your life will be a lot easier knowing at least some of the right things to say.
Get Familiar with the Culture
A lot of things are communicated via words, but many things aren’t. Almost more important than knowing the native tongue is knowing how the locals “speak” with their body language, their traditions, and their other demonstrations. Friendship is universal, and it’s often possible to understand each other without even using words.
Be Willing to Try, Be Willing to Laugh (At Yourself)
Humility goes a long way in these situations. If you bluster in speaking loud, slow English, you’re not going to win any friends. If you do your best, by way of pidgin and charades, and do it with a calm lighthearted attitude, you can more easily endear yourself to everyone around you. The miscommunications we all face in these situations can become great, hilarious memories if we check our ‘tude at the trailhead and let ourselves relax.
Ask How to Say Stuff
Everyone appreciates being treated as an expert. Allow the local speakers to help you improve your knowledge. Especially take advantage if they are multilingual and speak a bit of your own native language. If they want to learn a little themselves, show that you’re excited to help them improve their vocabulary, too. Everyone gets a valuable linguistic and cultural experience out of the deal. When your sincere goal is mutual understanding, you enrich your life in tons of ways and become kind of an ambassador for global communication in the process.
We’ll admit it. Travel insurance isn’t a particularly satisfying purchase. Most of us would love to cross our fingers and bank on the hope that our travels will go smoothly and as expected. But life happens. Whether it’s finding out you have to cancel weeks before you go, or needing emergency medical attention during a trip, it’s best to pursue peace of mind and know that you (and your bank account) will be covered if and when the unanticipated happens. Get an instant, no hassle quote from our best in class partner, World Nomads.
Get Ahead of Your Packing List
When you travel, sometimes all that you’ve got control over is what you’re physically carrying. While that can be a freeing feeling, it also speaks to how much your packing choices matter. Feeling prepared with the right clothing and gear choices mean you’ve got the best chance at being physically and culturally comfortable. Pack breathable layers, especially for warmer climates. Comfortable, practical shoes and garments that can transition from a day’s activities to a night out on the town are ideal. For itineraries on the move, it will be hard to get laundry done. Consider quicker drying fabrics in case you have to do some sink washing and overnight air drying.
Check Visa Requirements and Vaccination Recommendations
There’s no question you’ll need a passport if your travels will be taking you out of the U.S., but visa requirements will vary from country to country. Some will grant you an automatic tourist visa upon entry, others will require that you pay a fee in customs, and for some countries, you’ll have to apply for and secure a tourist visa before you go. As for vaccinations, some are highly recommended in certain higher risk regions of the world. Better safe than sorry here, as nothing will bum you out more than getting typhoid on vacation. Your tour operator will be a great resource for this kind of information, but always be sure to double-check with the U.S. State Department on Travel: https://www.state.gov/travel/ as well as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC): https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/.
Learn Basic Foreign Language Phrases
Fortunately for the English speaker, you can get by without knowing the local language in many countries around the world. But if you’re traveling to a destination where English is not a native or predominant language, it’s best practice to bring a traveler’s phrase book — no need to bring a full dictionary unless you’re planning to attend language school or stay abroad for months on end. Though you probably won’t be able to carry on any profound conversations, you’ll be stoked for the ability to communicate about the basics. And most importantly, your humble attempts will most likely be appreciated by the locals.
Budget for Fun Extras
Many tour packages include at least accommodations, and some guiding, meals, and activities. But you don’t want to have to turn down scuba diving in Cuba solely because you failed to bring $50 of extra cash. Always plan for more. While traveling, you’re often somewhere you may never again be in your life, which is not the time to deny yourself the right to that spontaneous splurge.
In honor of International Women’s Day we’re honoring one of The Clymb’s tour operators, Crystal Robertson, who with her husband Jeff, founded Le Grand Adventure Tours, an action sports trip provider that offers adventure travel experiences all over the globe.
Over the course of the last decade Crystal has harnessed her love for adventure into a full-time job, traveling from Japan to Croatia and more, in the pursuit of adventure. Crystal grew up a travel and outdoors enthusiast, scuba diving around the Caribbean, snowboarding around the West Coast, and rafting throughout California. This passion grew as she began exploring the world, always in search of the best mountains to snowboard, the highest cols to pedal her bike up, and the most beautiful islands to surf.
Tell us a bit about your background in the outdoors. My background in the outdoors started with my father who introduced me to the world of scuba diving. He is an instructor who helped me get certified and helped me train to become a rescue diver. I traveled the world diving with my family in exotic destinations such as Cozumel, Hawaii, and the Bahamas. Over the last 17 years, I’ve taken strongly to snowboarding, which has become my favorite activity and I’m now on the continuous hunt to ride all around the world. When I met my husband Jeff, we started traveling together, in constant pursuit of new places to find adventure. My passions have also inspired me to take a wide range of certifications in the disciplines of Yoga, SUP, SUP Yoga, Snow Safety, First Aid and CPR, which I get to share with guests on our tours.
What compelled you to start a guiding company with your husband? Starting an adventure company was my dream business to start. In my early twenties I began researching the industry and volunteered at an action sports travel company supervising trips. When I met my husband we had a discussion about our first dream job to pursue. He said, “start an adventure tour company.” In that conversation we laughed and couldn’t believe we both had the same dream. It wasn’t until years later that we finally had a serious talk and decided to give it a go. You truly don’t know the outcome of anything until you try. So we did, and we are having a blast every step of the way.
What has been your experience as a woman in the outdoor industry? I love it! This is an industry flooded with men and it is empowering to know you are pushing boundaries and opening the doors for more and more women to fuel their own adventure. When you meet other outdoor women that are really pushing their boundaries–you feel as if you’ve found new best friends. We all share a similar trait that ultimately unites us. It’s a wonderful time to be involved in the outdoors…even if I’m the only girl out with a group of guys, I’m still stoked! So come on ladies, let’s get out there!
What is Le Grand Women’s Adventures and how is it different from Le Grand Adventures? When we started Le Grand Women’s we really wanted to provide women a unique opportunity to explore new places. On our women’s trips you can practice new skills with professional guides/coaches and create bonds with other like-minded individuals that expand to friendships of a lifetime. When you’re surrounded by a tribe of supportive women that are craving and seeking as much adventure as you are…you can feel the empowerment from women that love to play hard and have fun. We feel that adventure travel should be offered to women in a manner that they see fit, after all everyone moves at a different pace. It’s all about women setting the tone for the trip that they want to have, for in the end, this is your adventure to recharge, power up, and feel stronger than ever.
What kind of advice do you have for women, or anyone, looking to get into an outdoor sport they might not otherwise try? Any step in the direction towards your dream is one step closer than you were yesterday. Thoughts turn into conversation, conversation turns into actions, continuous actions creates refinement.
I always suggest going out and finding a guide and/or an intro course to the sport that you want to try. I can’t even begin to tell you how important it is to learn the basics from an expert as those skills will stick with you for the rest of your life. Learning how to do it properly and safe is the most important aspect for success and fun.
Are there any organizations out there that you see helping women get involved in the outdoors? My favorite organizations out there right now are SheJumps–whose sole mission is to increase the participation of women and girls in outdoor activities. SAFE AS Clinics are tailored to women, with beginner to experienced avalanche awareness and safety clinics. Then us! We offer so many sports for women to try and many destinations to explore!
You’ve obviously travelled all over the globe, is there anywhere you haven’t been that you’re dying to see? While there are many places I have yet to travel to, the one I’m most excited for is a South American tour. Particularly, because my mother and family are from Peru. I have always dreamed of traveling to the country I was “almost born and raised in!” I now realize what a mecca Peru is for surfing and mountain biking and I can hardly wait, it is going to be very special.
Having made a career out of polar explorations, John Huston has many otherworldly expeditions under his belt. With adventures ranging from the South Pole to Ellesmere Island, Huston is also a veteran of the first American self-supported expedition to the North Pole in 2009, which required navigating over ice while toting along 55 days of food.
While Huston is quick to acknowledge the many highs he experienced on these travels, he is also open to speaking about the moments that occur after a big adventure, the re-entry into civilization and dealing with the come down back into society. While it might not resonate with everyone who ventures out into the natural world, if you’ve ever felt the rush of excitement vanish the second you get home, then Huston has a few wise words for dealing with the post-adventure blues.
The Clymb: For your 55-day, self-supported expedition to the North Pole, were there any moments you remember as the peak of your experience?
John Huston: There is no single moment that I point to as the big high, instead it’s small things like my team and I coming to the end of a ski day, with a real soft alpine glow on the horizon, and we just have this full feeling that we put in a solid, hard-working 12-hour day covering some real distance, knowing that we are going to have a hot meal real soon and we’re in this incredibly beautiful place on earth. It’s those little moments that combine hard work, scenic settings, and the people you are with; that creates the high for me. That can happen several times a week if the vibe is right.
The Clymb: After experiencing things like that, remote sunsets in arctic regions, and 55 days of skiing across glaciers, how long did it take you to get readjusted back to your ordinary life?
JH: After the North Pole it took a couple of months, other expeditions have been shorter. I was so focused on the North Pole trip, and I knew it was so difficult going in. I was so focused on the trip itself that I couldn’t imagine life afterwards. So I think for that trip in particular I didn’t have a big plan of what I was going to be doing with myself afterwards. I didn’t know what to do next. I’m a guy who likes to be doing stuff, and while some days of R&R can be good, it was almost too much.
The Clymb: Besides the obvious physical challenges of the expedition, what do you think causes this almost lethargic aftermath?
JH: On expeditions I feel like I’m tied into a very simple life and have a singular focus that is very engaging. When I come home and that all goes away, you can almost relate it back to something like college, when you work really hard to study for a test or write a paper for several days, and then it’s gone.
There’s something like a vacuum left in the mind, and it takes time to readjust and feel satisfied with what I’m doing everyday.
All the slight complications of day to day life that are always part of life, whether that is choosing what to eat everyday, or dealing with traffic or emails coming in, all that noise doesn’t exist on the ice and all of our meals are chosen for us, we are just focused on moving forward and staying safe and working as a team. So, to come home and have that go away and not really be able to relate the expedition life to a vast amount of other people, it can feel a bit lonely in that department when I come home.
The Clymb: How have you learned to deal with the noise and potential come down after a big expedition?
JH: I felt the post-adventure blues more keenly early in my career, and I think that I’ve learned to expect them, or to be able to head them off at the pass better as I’ve gotten older. Having a family and wife helps in that department quite a bit. To ward them off though, I’ve learned to just plan what I’m going to do next before I come home from the expedition, so I have something I’m looking forward to.
Especially when I’m on the ice, I am always making lists of what I want to do, where I want to travel or where I want to eat when I get home. If I’m able to make good on some of that, it feels really nice for my motivation. I had this hankering for a particular kind of ice cream when I was traveling my way to the North Pole, and so I went and ate some of that ice cream a couple of times when I got back home, each time I was like, “yeah, this is what I wanted.” It sounds so simple but making good on that stuff, and not letting that noise dominate you or tell you what to do, is important for readjustment.
Sometimes when I come back from an expedition, I’ll have to talk to the media or certain people eventually, but I don’t like to let the world know I’m back for a little bit. I just want that time to focus on what I want to focus on after I get back, like my family and readjustment. The world is always moving fast, and as soon as you jump back in, it’s going to sweep you along. It’s those transition times that I try to manage.
The Clymb: Did exercise have any role in the readjustment process? If so, how quickly did you put your body back into the physical demands of a strict exercise regimen?
JH: Anytime I’m feeling a little bit off my game mentally, exercise is huge for me, and most certainly following any big trip. After the North Pole I took up swimming, and that helped get me going again. The Russians have used simple exercise to treat mental illness for a long time, and while I’ve never experienced mental illness in my own life, I’m the kind of person who gets a little grumpy if I’m not working out several times a week. So I think exercise is a big part of my post-adventure routine.
For the North Pole I took a month off. Other expeditions that weren’t as physically intense, where my body wasn’t as wasted, I was able to resume running and biking right away, and felt like I was in really good shape, and that’s kind of fun to take advantage of. I’d be used to skiing 10–12 hours a day and sleeping outdoors, so when I go do a simple six mile run it mentally felt like ½ of a ski session I had been doing six times a week. It’s a great feeling and a different mentality. My mind is geared for the long run when I’m out on an expedition, so it’s relatively simple to do shorter workouts back home.
The Clymb: Taking advantage of your physical abilities after a big trip is one thing, but how about the mental aspect? How do you process all your thoughts about a big trip after it happens?
JH: After my trips I want to talk to my expedition buddies who live in Norway and Minnesota, because I know they understand the expedition experience. That can be really nice to solidify some of the memories of what happened on the trip. Also, we wrote a book about the North Pole, and even though we didn’t start writing the book until a year later, that was a great experience for putting the trip away and putting closure on things. I don’t recommend people go write a book necessarily—that’s a big pain in the ass—but journaling and just getting some of those thoughts on paper, even just going through photos, that can be a big help as well. I like to have a little separation before I do any of that stuff though, but it jogs my memories and puts the trip to bed in a nice way.
The Clymb: What causes the feeling of wanting to have that separation?
JH: Everyone is different, but I’ve always needed that separation, so I can feel detached a bit from the experience emotionally. I think what it comes down to is your photos and videos and whatever you wrote during the trip create your memories, and I like to give myself some time to breathe before I relive the trip. I think I’m more relaxed and have that detachment so I might pick up things that I wouldn’t have necessarily if I looked at them right after the trip.
The Clymb: You have a 10-day expedition that you are guiding to Baffin Island in the Spring of 2018, have you already started making any plans for what you want to do after returning from that expedition?
JH: I am already planning to take my wife out to dinner when I get back from the trip, partly because she will be taking care of the kids while I’m gone. For small trips like that, and big trips too, some of the best times are at the end when you have a deliberate celebration of the trip. After the North Pole we had this huge party in Norway, and it was a big highlight that everyone who attended will never forget. For smaller trips too, especially ones with a team, it’s nice to have some closure where you celebrate the end of the trip and talk about what happened, laugh about it, and put it to bed. I think it’s important for anyone who goes on a trip to carve out a little time to put the trip to bed and not just let it run loose and flow back into the rest of life to be forgotten about.
The Clymb: What value do you personally find in big expeditions, and what drives you to keep going back to exploring the ice?
JH: There is definitely an afterglow following a big expedition, it’s a fun experience. Every trip I learn a little about myself and what I want to be doing with my life, so it kind of re-centers my priorities. Expeditions are damn fun, challenging, emotional and difficult, but they involve a singleness of purpose and often take you to very beautiful, remote part of the world, and it’s fun to make those dreams happen.
To learn more about Huston and his big expeditions over the ice, you can check out his website at www.JohnHuston.com, which also includes information on his speaking tour, his book, Forward, that recounts his self-supported North Pole expedition and details about his 2018 Baffin Island trip, of which you can join Huston and fellow guide Sarah McNair-Landry for two weeks of exploring this polar paradise.
Rooted in Northern California, among aged sequoia trees and the towering cliffs of El Capitan, Lasting Adventures is born and bred in the wilderness of Yosemite. This non-profit is on a mission to serve youth in the outdoors, providing backpacking trips, day hikes, and outdoor summer camps.
Founder Scott Gehrman developed an appreciation for Yosemite National Park at a young age when his bond with the park helped him recover after losing his mother to cancer. This passion grew into an inevitable calling to combine both his love for the outdoors and for youth development in order to establish Lasting Adventures in 1997.
Yosemite is much more than a National Park to Lasting Adventures. It is an emblem of love, education, and perseverance. It is an opportunity to show youth and the general public the positive impact the natural environment and backcountry wilderness can have on humans.
With an exceptional staff, devoted executive team, and strong mission, Lasting Adventures has served over 5,000 kids and provided 1,500 scholarships to disadvantaged youth, allowing them to gain valuable skills and real life experiences.
Lasting Adventures’ mission is to provide positive youth development and educational opportunities to the general public while also providing charitable assistance to otherwise disadvantaged youth. The Clymb is proud to partner with such a force for good in the outdoor space.
Support your adventure habit while supporting local providers.
For more information about booking a trip with Lasting Adventures, check out our Adventures page here.
Bio Laura Atherton- Senior Program Coordinator Adventures
Karina Salgado – Brand Design Manager
Both genuine Oregonians, Karina was born and raised in Medford and Laura in Portland. They both enjoy snowboarding, backpacking, and of course, long treks in the Himalayas.
Photography & Story by Laura Atherton and Karina Salgado
Why Everest?
Laura- The mountains have always fascinated me. The ways in which people climb them, the endurance & training it takes to get there, and the feeling of standing at the summit is incomparable to any other goal I’ve attained. In the past several years, I’ve checked off several Northwest peaks, however, nothing compares to the magnitude of hiking in the Himalayas. Beyond the sheer size of the mountains, there is an intriguing history and culture around climbing Everest that has always drawn me in.
Karina- The love for travel and new experiences- it’s always special to learn and experience new countries and cultures, from the people, to their traditions and customs, to their food. The extra part for me was that I was entering into the unknown physically and mentally. Putting aside day hikes, apart from a couple short and easy backpacking trips and a stint up Rainier that definitely pushed me to my limits, I had never done anything like this, and while I was fairly confident that I could do this trip, I still wasn’t sure how I’d handle everything- the challenge was a big draw, and the potential to succeed and grow.
Packing List The weather varied drastically as we hiked from Lukla at 9,383′ to Everest Base Camp at 17,600′. It was critical to always pack in layers and be ready for any temperature.Gear we could not live without included a spacious and well-fitted daypack with many easily accessible pockets to hold the essentials like snacks, water bottles, sunglasses, sunscreen, and extra layers.
In order to reduce our impact on the trail and save money, we opted to filter our water. Steri-pens and Sawyer backpacking water filters were our best fiends as we aimed to drink a minimum of 96 oz. per day.
A water bottle is not only your friend during the day, but at night I’d fill it up with hot water and hold it in my sleeping bag with me for extra warmth. (Thanks Michelle for teaching me that one!)
Trip Highlights The pinnacle of the trip was reaching Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar. Starting out in low-lying forested villages, we saw the landscape dramatically change the higher we trekked. Upon reaching EBC, we were surrounded by a desolate landscape of rock and ice.We were proud of how far we had trekked to be gazing up at Everest from the bottom of the mountain.
The trek in general was a truly amazing experience. The morning we ascended to EBC in particular — we started our day early, it was that time in the morning that holds unparalleled peace, one of the few times when it felt really remote.
What Made This Trip So Special? We got to connect with some many people from all over the world, and the overall sense of accomplishment we had at the end. We hiked most days but still had the afternoons and evenings free. Everyone would huddle around the common area of the guesthouses to share meals, read, play games, and pass time together. We quickly picked up the card game, Dumbal, a fast-paced game that everyone knew from porters, guides, cooks, and guesthouse staff. It was an amazing way to be able to connect with everyone, even if we did not speak the same language.
Where do you want to go next? Laura- I’m always scheming and dreaming my next adventure. I’m planning on going to Iceland in the spring to circumnavigate the island, some mountain biking and summer climbing in the Pacific Northwest, and hopefully Kilimanjaro in the fall.
Karina- I might join Laura in Iceland or Kilimanjaro, but I have also been dreaming of a warm beach and some smooth waves to surf. Until then, its mostly snowboarding in my near future.
For outdoor thrill seekers, Australia is a wonderland of rugged terrain and dramatic topography. Time to grab your boots and plan your next trek.
Larapinta Trail
Totaling 138.5 miles, this ranging trail spans 12 sections which can be completed in a single hike or broken into day hikes—each section is vehicle accessible, so hop on and off as suits you.
The trail reaches from Alice Springs in the east to Mount Sonder in the west. The diverse geography it takes in its path makes it one of the most popular treks in the region. From sharply ascending bluffs with views for miles too long, flat, meandering sections past shady waterholes, there’s a stretch to suit every preference.
Overland Track
You’ll need serious outdoors and fitness skills to tackle this one. The roughly 40-mile track takes you through Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park in Tasmania. You’ll need to pay a registration fee to complete the hike during the busy months (October–June). And whichever season you choose, you’ll need to plan for exposure to the elements and long, strenuous days.
Conditions are grueling on the six-day journey. But everything you see along the way—from dramatic glacially formed valleys to dizzying mountain panoramas—puts the splendor of the park in full display.
Three Sisters, Blue Mountains National Park
The work of millennia, these astonishing sandstone pillars were once, according to Aboriginal legend, three beautiful women forbidden from inter-tribal marriages to the men they loved. A tribal elder turned them into stone to protect them but, after dying in battle himself, was unable to restore them to human form. Here they stand to this day, their geology so magnificently full of life that the origin of the myth is easily understandable.
The trail to the sisters leads you through the forest as old as the dinosaurs and past some of the most stunning formations you’ll ever see.
Coastal Track, Noosa National Park
Because a stunning ocean view is always welcome, this pretty stretch of trail is a must for area visitors. It’s one among several routes in the park, which hosts just over nine miles of prime hiking paths. What makes the coastal track special, of course, is its access to some of the most gorgeous beaches in Queensland. This means that once you’ve done your mileage for the day, you can relax on the shoreline and enjoy the beauty of the sparkling sea.
Great Ocean Walk, Wilson’s Promontory
This meandering 60-mile trail lets you traverse everything from breathtaking cliffs and rocky shores to woodlands and estuaries, all through one of Australia’s most stunning national parks. The park includes access to the southern-most lighthouse in operation on Australia’s mainland.
Suitable for multiday backpacking adventures or hop-on, hop-off day hikes, much of the trail is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. But if you’ll be making the trip with a mixed-ability group, check with park rangers to make sure your path is appropriate for the whole party.
Main Range Walk, Kosciuszko National Park
The 13.6‑mile loop covers some of Australia’s alpine high country. Expect spare, rugged beauty and steep climbs. Observe the glacially sculpted geography and cross the Snowy River.
If you visit in summer, you’ll revel in the fiery wildflowers on display throughout much of the journey. But during the winter, expect a white-blanketed landscape best crossed on snowshoes.
Whatever the season, when you reach the trail’s summit, you’ll be at one of Australia’s highest points, surveying mountains in all directions.
Old Town Outfitters started as a dream while founder Matt Hartell and his brother were riding mountain bikes in Guatemala in 1995. This rural and vibrant country, full of mystery and culture, was the perfect place for an adventure travel company.
Incredible access to the outdoors and a seemingly limitless network of trails were all within reach of the beautiful and conveniently located Antigua. Thus, in the fall of 1998, Old Town Outfitters was officially founded.
Nearly 20 years later, the adventure is still going strong. Full-time guide staff has an average of 10+ years with the company, operating world-class, tailor-made itineraries, while going out of their way to ensure that every visit is unforgettable.
Along with the integrity of their adventures, OTO is dedicated to supporting local NGOs that benefit surrounding communities. Hartell and his team help run regular volunteer and fundraising events for Niños de Guatemala, The Phoenix Projects, EcoFiltro, and others. In January of 2015, OTO sponsored three of their guides and one other hiker to complete a fundraising expedition called “37in27”, in which they summited all of Guatemala’s 37 volcanoes in just 27 days. The team was able to raise nearly $20,000 for local NGOs.
With its rugged landscapes, rich Mayan (or Maya?) culture, and historical colonial charm, Guatemala is an intoxicating adventure destination for all types of travelers. Climb soaring volcanoes, kayak magnificent Lake Atitlan, mountain bike in the jungle, explore markets bursting with life, and more.
Support your adventure habit while supporting Guatemalan communities.
For more information about booking a trip with Old Town Outfitters, check out our Adventures page here.
Every season offers its share of outdoor opportunities, but variety is the spice of life. So if you’re passionate about warm weather adventures and want to keep your endless summer flowing, check out some of these great southern hemisphere destinations.
Florianópolis, Southern Brazil
Boasting 42 gorgeous beaches, Florianópolis offers a mix of sandy spots that accommodate a range of interests. For family-friendly calm and protected waters, visit the peninsula’s west side. But if you’re looking to shred waves, make for the eastern shore, where powerful Atlantic swells generate excellent conditions. Praia Mole and Galheta, in particular, are noteworthy surf spots. When you’re through sunning yourself, check out the fashionable Beira-Mar Norte district, located on an island linked to the mainland by a bridge.
La Serena, Chile
Stargazing on a summery December night is an experience you’ll cherish forever. And there’s good reason constellation hunters flock to Northern Chile’s La Serena. Thanks to the clarity of these southern skies, La Serena hosts the largest collection of astronomical observatories in the world. About a third of the sky you’ll see here isn’t ever viewable from the hemisphere. Visit Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory on a tour.
Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand
If hiking along a pristine and highly variable coastal route is your idea of paradise, New Zealand has you covered. Abel Tasman’s coast track is your perfect escape. This 32-mile stretch will take you through lush vegetation, past waters that sparkle in transparent blues and greens, along some of the most beautiful views in the world. In the park, you’ll also find access to camping, boating, hunting, and biking.
Byron Bay, Australia
Come surf, stroll, and loll in this gorgeous beach hamlet where Santa Claus is more apt to appear on water skis than in a snow-dusted sleigh.
There’s plenty of activity for all, whether you seek water sports, hiking, ballooning adventures, or family-friendly fun. Byron Bay is famous for its natural beauty as well as for its awesome hotels.
Sydney, Australia
Sydney is an unsurpassed site for urban exploration. From the iconic Opera House with its stunning harbor view to up-and-coming cuisine, you can indulge in culture and sophistication with an Aussie accent. And when you want to shed your city chic to hit the waves, visit world-famous Bondi Beach and get some tan lines in that warm January sunshine.
Table Mountain National Park, South Africa
The stunning composition of mountains that rise from a sparkling stretch of coast would make Table Mountain an ideal location any time of year. To enjoy the full scope of the view, take a ride on the Mountain Cableway.
From climbing and hiking to secluded forest picnics, there is no shortage of memories to be made. Perhaps best of all among the park’s most visited locations? A world-famous penguin colony where you can observe African penguins up close in their natural environment.
Why Peru, and Why the Salkantay Trek in Particular?
Valencia Travel Cuzco via The Clymb’s Adventure appealed to me because the Salkantay Trek, a 5‑day trek through the Andes, is regarded as one of the best treks in the world. Capping at 15,253 feet, this ancient and secluded trail is located in the same region as the Inca Trail that leads to Machu Picchu. Exploring this region had long since been on my bucket list so when the opportunity came up I quickly jumped on it.
Packing Essentials?
Beyond the hiking essentials (sunblock, hiking poles, camera), I couldn’t do without bug repellant. Traveling through an array of microclimates, I wore warm clothes to protect me from the cold conditions. After trekking alongside glaciers in the morning I had to quickly delayer when we reached the jungle, exposing myself to bugs that were in search of dinner.
Trip Highlights?
The goal had been to reach Machu Picchu, but in hindsight the most memorable part of the trip took place on day 2 of the trek. That morning, my guide Fabi gave me a pep talk about the challenging route that entailed gaining 3000 ft of elevation within 3 miles to reach the Salkantay Pass. Making it to the pass, which is settled between massive mountains and glaciers, was truly epic. To the left stood Tucarhuay and to the right Salkantay. I felt the crisp air of the mountains and was grateful to stand at the top admiring the beauty of the Andes.
What Made this Trip so Special?
Along the Salkantay trail I had the privilege to be greeted by the many locals of the countryside. I was enamored by their kindness and generosity. It was a real honor to journey along this ancient and sacred path.
Where Do You Want to Go Next?
There are so many amazing places to see, but South America keeps luring me in. I would love to climb Aconcagua, which stands in the heart of the Andes wedged between Chile and Argentina and peaks at 22,841 ft. Aconcagua is the highest mountain in both the Western and Southern Hemispheres.
Want to share your Clymb Adventure story? Email stories@theclymb.comwith trip highlights and 3–5 images for a chance to be featured.
For more information on booking a trip, check out our Clymb Adventures page here.
Summer means several things in Alaska: almost 24-hour sunlight, rainy weather, and of course, tourists. As a local Alaskan, I’ve hosted many out-of-towners and witnessed many more in typical tourist haunts. So, if you’re planning a summer excursion to Alaska, here are 10 things you’ll need to get the most out of your trip.
1. Rain Jacket If there’s one thing you can count on from an Alaskan summer, it’s rain. Usually, in the form of a light drizzle, it can increase to a full-on monsoon. Keep yourself warm and dry with a light, breathable, and water-resistant jacket.
2. Cool Weather Wear It’s no secret that Alaska boasts cooler temperatures than most places. So, depending on your climate of origin, you may want to bundle up a little more than you would elsewhere. Don’t break out your snowsuit, but prepare with long pants and long sleeves. The best layers are ones you can shed if the temperature creeps up.
3. Warm Weather Wear Many visitors are so preoccupied with dressing for cold weather, that they completely forget the potential for hot summer temperatures. Especially for people planning to visit different areas of the state, keep in mind temps can reach the 90’s in various areas. Prepare by bringing shorts and t‑shirts, knowing a quick change in weather may require adding a layer.
4. Camera Try not to spend so much time behind the lens that you miss out on your actual experience, but of course, you’ll want to snap that perfect profile pic. Big or small, bring your preferred camera—just remember to be aware of your surroundings. While the view might be beautiful, stopping on the side of a two-lane highway while locals rush to the river, may not be the best course of action. When you’re driving use specific pullouts to stop and take pictures.
5. Shoes with Tread While many places you’ll travel in Alaska have paved roads and sidewalks, you’ll probably want to venture off the beaten path at some point. Depending on your anticipated activity, opt to bring a shoe with considerable tread. A trail running shoe or hiking boot is a good option for most outdoor activities.
6. Sleeping Mask It’s not called the “Land of the Midnight Sun” for nothing. With sunsets occurring in the early morning hours (if at all), most Alaskans fashion room darkening shades or place tin foil on their windows to get proper shuteye. As a visitor, a sleeping mask should do the trick.
7. Casual Wear Even Alaskans like to enjoy a nice night on the town. Should you venture to a nicer venue, you don’t want to show up to a fancy dinner in your zip-off adventure pants. Plan a couple of comfortable, casual outfits and don’t feel the need to get to gussied up. Alaskans may not be the best-dressed folks in the nation, but you’ll get some sideways glances if you show up to dinner looking ready to hike.
8. Money Ok, so this probably goes for any trip you take but do bear in mind things are little pricier in Alaska. Primarily due to the costs of importing goods, high costs trickle down to locals and visitors alike. If your budget is less padded, opt for as many free activities as possible. Most sightseeing can be done from a car window or atop a local hiking trail.
9. Sense of Direction Locals are big into using cardinal directions to send you to a destination. If you find yourself confused at where to go fear not—just remember in Southcentral Alaska, East is toward the mountains. Always ask for clarification, and carry a map.
10. Flexibility No, we’re not referring to your downward dog, but rather to your emotional flexibility. Plans change as frequently as the weather in the Last Frontier. Summer road construction, inclement weather, or a grizzly posting up in your camping spot can put a stick in the spokes of the best-laid plans. When traveling in Alaska, it’s best to keep a sense of humor and see obstacles as an adventure.
Why did you choose this adventure?
Cuba has a mystique unlike anywhere else on the planet. I’d always read and been told that going to Cuba was like stepping back in time to a place where people still rode by horse and buggy or drove classic 60-year-old cars, and socialist propaganda billboards stood in place of commercial ads. With the implications of a thawing U.S.-Cuba relationship, I wanted to see it before it started catching up to the 21st century.
Packing Essentials: What did you use most?
Lightweight, breathable clothing. Light wool tanks, a synthetic long-sleeve shirt, and boardshorts are great multi-purpose staples. If you pick the right colors/patterns, they’ll also help conceal sweat.
A good daypack. Suitable for any daily adventure to house the essentials. Don’t forget sunscreen.
Reusable water bottle and SteriPEN. I’m a big fan of being able to make any water safe to drink. It’s convenient, cost-effective, and good for the planet.
What were your trip highlights?
Hiking to pristine waterfalls and pools in the lush hills outside of Trinidad. Horseback riding through yucca, tobacco, and sugarcane farms along the striking limestone monoliths of Viñales. Wandering the vibrant streets of magical Havana, with its crumbling elegance and steady pour of live music. Scuba diving near the Bay of Pigs, with its warm water, amazing clarity, and pristine reef teeming with colorful sea life. Plus, it’s uncannily affordable, with a 2‑hour session only running you $40 per person.
What makes this place special?
What makes Cuba special is its timeless antiquity, the diverse beauty of its terrain, the fascinating mix of Latin and African culture with former Soviet influence, and the indomitable strength and spirit of the Cuban people. To say they’ve endured a lot is an understatement, and they’re still incredibly warm, generous, and always looking to crack a joke.
What was the craziest thing that you saw?
On the drive from Trinidad back to Havana, I saw an old man riding a bicycle while holding the reigns of a trotting horse, all on the side of a six-lane highway.
You’re reading our first ever Clymb Adventures Partner Spotlight. We’ll be giving you an inside look at the people who power Clymb Adventures, what makes them so special, and why they are such an integral part of what we do.
Horizons framed by soaring snowy peaks, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and wind torn, fluttering prayer flags are but a few reasons the Himalayas are pure alpine magic. The topography of this sacred land begs for exploration and discovery. It’s not just the land but the people that make an experience here unforgettable.
Ace the Himalaya, a 100% Nepalese-owned ground operator, makes adventure happen here. And The Clymb is proud to say they were our very first travel partner. Today, they continue to embody the spirit of human-powered adventure, offering authenticity, value, and a model which takes care of its own and the surrounding communities.
Founded in 2006 by a former trekking Sherpa named Prem Khatry, the inspiration was born out of a life lived to honor mountains. Raised in the remote Himalayan village of Gorkha, Prem developed a love for nature which led him to the Nepalese tourism industry at age 15. After 8 years as a guide, Prem was ready to bring his own vision to life, and Ace the Himalaya was born.
Operating in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, from trekking, to mountaineering, rafting, mountain biking, cultural tours, to voluntourism, Ace connects explorers with their chosen paths. With an average group size of eight clients to two guides, these experiences are intimate and authentic. All guides are local and trained to strict standards.
To celebrate Ace the Himalaya, we’re highlighting four of their adventure offerings. Hike the classic route to Everest Base Camp, trek the spectacular Annapurna Circuit, heli-tour the Himalayas, or raft, mountain bike, and paraglide your way through Nepal. Experience a beautiful corner of the world while supporting a grassroots organization. There’s no better time to go than now.
For more information on Clymb Adventures, check out our page here.
Chances are, some of the most thrilling and beautiful places on the planet are located in countries whose languages you don’t speak. Are you going to let that dissuade you from exploring every inch of the globe? Of course not. You’re just going to make some smart moves in advance to ensure a successful and enjoyable excursion.
Larapinta Trail
Overland Track
Three Sisters, Blue Mountains National Park
Coastal Track, Noosa National Park
Great Ocean Walk, Wilson’s Promontory
Main Range Walk, Kosciuszko National Park
Every season offers its share of outdoor opportunities, but variety is the spice of life. So if you’re passionate about warm weather adventures and want to keep your endless summer flowing, check out some of these great southern hemisphere destinations.
Summer means several things in Alaska: almost 24-hour sunlight, rainy weather, and of course, tourists. As a local Alaskan, I’ve hosted many out-of-towners and witnessed many more in typical tourist haunts. So, if you’re planning a summer excursion to Alaska, here are 10 things you’ll need to get the most out of your trip.
6. Sleeping Mask
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