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<channel>
	<title>Travel Photography Blog by Nisa Maier and Ulli Maier. &#187; Trekking</title>
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	<link>http://www.cookiesound.com</link>
	<description>We are a mother-daughter photography team, passionate about travelling to foreign countries around the world. Travel ⎮ Photography ⎮ Documentary.</description>
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		<title>One Of The Most Beautiful Hikes In The World: The Quiraing In Scotland.</title>
		<link>http://www.cookiesound.com/2017/09/one-of-the-most-beautiful-hikes-in-the-world-the-quiraing-in-scotland/</link>
		<comments>http://www.cookiesound.com/2017/09/one-of-the-most-beautiful-hikes-in-the-world-the-quiraing-in-scotland/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 11 Sep 2017 14:35:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nisa]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Europe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scotland]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Isle of Skye]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Landscape]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Must Do]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Road Trip]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Quiraing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trekking]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.cookiesound.com/?p=13629</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Scotland might just be one of the most beautiful places we&#8217;ve ever been to. Whether you&#8217;re young or old, sporty or relaxed, easy going or an adventure seeker, everyone will get what they&#8217;re looking for. During our road trip, we managed to travel all across the norther tip of England, with the Isle of Skye [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Scotland might just be one of the most beautiful places we&#8217;ve ever been to. Whether you&#8217;re young or old, sporty or relaxed, easy going or an adventure seeker, everyone will get what they&#8217;re looking for. During our road trip, we managed to travel all across the norther tip of England, with the Isle of Skye as our last destination.</p>
<p>Apart from Scotlands landmark, the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing is a must for anyone who visits Isle of Skye; especially if you&#8217;re a travel photographer!</p>
<p>The weather in Scotland can be very unpredictable, so it&#8217;s best to come prepared. It looked quite nice when we started the trek, yet it turned on us just before we got to the end where you decide to either turn around, or keep walking to finish the loop. It was really windy (really SUPER windy!) and it got foggy as well so we turned around in the end. We could barely keep ourselves from falling because the wind was that strong! On the contrary, it was nice because the wind pretty much pushed us all the way up. The trek itself is not hard, but we&#8217;re just going to let the photos speak for themselves.</p>
<h5>A few facts about the Quiraing:</h5>
<ul>
<li>Length: 6.8km (the loop)</li>
<li>Duration: 2-3 hours (depending on the weather)</li>
<li>Difficulty: Easy (unless it&#8217;s super windy, then you should be aware of the drops)</li>
</ul>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/isle-of-skye-quiraing-hiking-scotland-4.jpg" alt="One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/isle-of-skye-quiraing-hiking-scotland-6.jpg" alt="One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/isle-of-skye-quiraing-hiking-scotland-5.jpg" alt="One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/isle-of-skye-quiraing-hiking-scotland-2.jpg" alt="One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/isle-of-skye-quiraing-hiking-scotland-1.jpg" alt="One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/isle-of-skye-quiraing-hiking-scotland-7.jpg" alt="One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">One of the most beautiful hikes in the world, with the most stunning landscape: The Quiraing in Scotland.</p></div>
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		<title>Strada delle 52 Gallerie: A Historic Hike Through The Dolomites.</title>
		<link>http://www.cookiesound.com/2016/09/strada-delle-52-gallerie-a-historic-hike-through-the-dolomites-italy/</link>
		<comments>http://www.cookiesound.com/2016/09/strada-delle-52-gallerie-a-historic-hike-through-the-dolomites-italy/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 04 Sep 2016 17:47:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ulli]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Europe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Italy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Day Hike]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dolomites]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hike]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[History]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Landscape]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Strada delle 52 Gallerie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trekking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tunnel Road]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.cookiesound.com/?p=13364</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We&#8217;ve been longing to visit Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen) for years and actually thought that we could finally put an end to our Dolomites-starvation. But this part of Italy is packed during summer season, so we had to postpone yet again. Thousands of tourists in a serene area is definitely not what we were after. So, [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We&#8217;ve been longing to visit <em>Tre Cime di Lavaredo</em> (Drei Zinnen) for years and actually thought that we could finally put an end to our Dolomites-starvation. But this part of Italy is packed during summer season, so we had to postpone yet again. Thousands of tourists in a serene area is definitely not what we were after. So, after browsing through several mountain-hike websites, we came across the historic <em>Strada delle 52 Gallerie</em>, or as it&#8217;s known in English: The road of 52 tunnels.</p>
<h4>From Vienna To Passo di Xomo.</h4>
<p>From Vienna it&#8217;s an 800 km drive until you reach <em>Passo di Xomo</em>, which is the starting off point. The drive itself is a pleasure, because the scenery makes up for the hours of driving. Still, it&#8217;s a long way to go with a camper van and we only arrived far after lunch. Therefore we decided to spend the night at <a href="http://www.rifugiopassoxomo.it/">Rifugio Passo Xomo</a> (approx. 50 € per room). Early the next morning we drove up the remaining 4 km to <em>Bocchetta Campiglia</em> from where the hike begins. You can park your car here for 6 € per day.</p>
<h4>Tunnels 1 to 52.</h4>
<p><strong>The road of 52 tunnels is not just any hike; it&#8217;s a hike through history.</strong> This military mountain road was built during World War I. It was (and still is) a real masterpiece of military engineering and boldness, considering the conditions back then. It <strong>was constructed in just 10 months (!)</strong> from February to November 1917 under the guidance of L<span class="st">ieutenant Joseph Zappa</span>. It&#8217;s hard to imagine how soldiers carried up supplies and minors built these mountain tunnels in the middle of winter.</p>
<p>The hike itself is rather easy, though enduring due to its length of 6.5 kilometres and the elevation gain (with an average 12% grade). There are plenty of rocks to rest and soak up the stunning views.</p>
<p>Every tunnel is special in a way, but <strong>one of the most well known and impressive ones is Nr. 20. This tunnel is carved out of a rock tower and is spiralling upwards for 87 meters!</strong> Nr. 47 is also amazing, because it&#8217;s the highest point from where you have an amazing view of the area.</p>
<h5>What Do Bring:</h5>
<ul>
<li>A (head)torch is essential, because some tunnels are quite long and pitch dark.</li>
<li>And good hiking boots are recommended, because it can get quite slippery.</li>
</ul>
<h4>Finally: Pasta, Pasta!</h4>
<p>It took us about three hours to reach the end of the trail, where you&#8217;ll immediately see <a href="http://www.caischio.it/">Rifugio Achille Papa</a>. We spoiled ourselves and ordered a well deserved Italian pasta. As already said, the hike itself is not too difficult, but we were pretty exhausted anyway. Oh and the Rigugio even has a few rooms, so if you feel too tired to walk back the same day, just spend the night. Be sure to make a reservation though (especially on weekends).</p>
<p>From up here, there are two ways back to the car park: you can either turn around and head right back down on the Strada delle 52 Gallerie or you can take the gently winding road. We went for the dirt road, which is used to transport supplies up to the Rifugio. After 17.5 kilometres, we finally reached the parking lot. <strong>Exhausted but also exited to have just walked in the footsteps of history.</strong></p>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/strada-delle-52-gallerie-dolomites-italy.jpg" alt="Hiking through the Strada delle 52 Gallerie is a walk through history." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Hiking through the Strada delle 52 Gallerie is a walk through history.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/strada-delle-52-gallerie-dolomites-italy-first-tunnel.jpg" alt="The entrance of tunnel 1." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The entrance of tunnel Nr. 1.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/strada-delle-52-gallerie-dolomites-italy-landscape-1.jpg" alt="The Strada delle 52 Gallerie trail alternates between a dirt track and tunnels dug out of the mountain." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The Strada delle 52 Gallerie trail alternates between a dirt track and tunnels dug out of the mountain.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/strada-delle-52-gallerie-dolomites-italy-tunnel-1.jpg" alt="The longest tunnel is Nr. 19, with 318 m length." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The longest tunnel is Nr. 19, with 318 m length.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/strada-delle-52-gallerie-dolomites-italy-landscape-2.jpg" alt="Strada delle 52 Gallerie starts at Bocchetta di Campiglia (altitude of 1216 m) and ends at the Porte del Pasubio (altitude of 1928 m)." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Strada delle 52 Gallerie starts at Bocchetta di Campiglia (altitude of 1216 m) and ends at the Porte del Pasubio (altitude of 1928 m).</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/strada-delle-52-gallerie-dolomites-italy-tunnel-2.jpg" alt="Strada delle 52 Gallerie was originally built as a supply line for Italian troops who were defending against Austrian and Hungarian forces. The path was made to accommodate the soldiers and their mules." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Strada delle 52 Gallerie was originally built as a supply line for Italian troops who were defending against Austrian and Hungarian forces. The path was made to accommodate the soldiers and their mules.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/strada-delle-52-gallerie-dolomites-italy-landscape.jpg" alt="Strada delle 52 Gallerie is located approx. 30km from Lake Garda, one of the most beautiful areas in northern Italy." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Strada delle 52 Gallerie is located approx. 30km from Lake Garda, one of the most beautiful areas in northern Italy.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/strada-delle-52-gallerie-dolomites-italy-tunnel.jpg" alt="Hiking along the Strada delle 52 Gallerie is an amazing experience - also because of the stunning views!" width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Hiking along the Strada delle 52 Gallerie is an amazing experience &#8211; also because of the stunning views!</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Rifugio-Achille-Papa-strada-delle-52-gallerie-dolomites-italy.jpg" alt="Rifugio Achille Papa is located right at the end of Strada delle 52 Gallerie and a perfect spot for a nice lunch." width="1600" height="1066" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Rifugio Achille Papa is located right at the end of Strada delle 52 Gallerie and a perfect spot for a nice lunch.</p></div>
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		<title>Welcome To Little Tibet, Welcome To Ladakh, Welcome To Leh.</title>
		<link>http://www.cookiesound.com/2016/01/welcome-to-little-tibet-welcome-to-ladakh-welcome-to-leh/</link>
		<comments>http://www.cookiesound.com/2016/01/welcome-to-little-tibet-welcome-to-ladakh-welcome-to-leh/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2016 11:14:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nisa]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Asia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[India]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Himalayas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kashmir]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ladakh]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leh]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leh-Manali Highway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trekking]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.cookiesound.com/?p=13045</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Getting to Leh involves one of the most adventurous trips in the world: a journey across the fantastic Leh-Manali Highway. Or you can simply hop on a plane, although that&#8217;s not only boring, but also involves a lot of adjustment time due to altitude sickness. The decision was easy for us, we were up for an adventure and [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Getting to Leh involves one of the most adventurous trips in the world: <strong>a journey across the fantastic Leh-Manali Highway</strong>. Or you can simply hop on a plane, although that&#8217;s not only boring, but also involves a lot of adjustment time due to altitude sickness. The decision was easy for us, we were up for an adventure and after a two day trip (479 kilometers from Manali) across the Himalayas, we arrived in the beautiful town of Leh &#8211; exhausted, tired and with a headache.</p>
<h4>The Capital Of Ladakh.</h4>
<p>Leh lies at an altitude of 3.524 metres and due to the strong influence of Tibetan Buddhism, the city is also known as <em>Little Tibet</em> or the <em>Land of Lamas</em>. Although not as high as some of the passes across the Leh-Manali Highway, the atmosphere and especially the sky is exceptional. You&#8217;re closer to heaven and not only can you see, but feel it! Leh radiates something I can&#8217;t quite nail down. Something peaceful and mysterious at the same time. <strong>We felt like staying in an old western town with a gold-rush mood</strong>&#8230; the next three days would let us explore this amazing town and the beautiful surrounding Gompas.</p>
<h5>Religious Tolerance And Respect For Cultures.</h5>
<p>Even today the Jammu and Kashmir region is often in the news due to religious clashes. The dispute actually dates back to August 1947, when the partition of the Indian sub-continent led to the formation of India and Pakistan. Because of its location, Kashmir could choose to join either India or Pakistan. The ruler of Kashmir, Maharaja Hari Singh, was Hindu while the majority of the population were Muslims, therefore he wasn&#8217;t able to decide whether Kashmir should join India or Pakistan. In the end, Kashmir remained neutral. But his hopes of independence only lasted until October 1947, when Pakistan sent in Muslim tribesmen to Srinagar. The Maharaja then appealed to the Indian government for military assistance. In return, he signed the <em>Instrument of Accession</em>, which stated that Kashmir would join India on October 26, 1947, with a portion of it having passed to Pakistan&#8217;s control.</p>
<p>Since 1947, India and Pakistan have fought three wars and only this January, thousands of civilians have fled their homes, due to the clashes along the 200-kilometre stretch of the border. It&#8217;s unclear for how long this battle will continue.</p>
<p>But on the brighter side, Leh radiated a sense of calmness. At least we had that feeling. Here you can hear the muezzin, as well as the buddhists chantings. You&#8217;ll come across mosques, before passing a Tibetian prayer wheel. The architecture in the town also shows both Buddhist and Muslim styles. So what is it, that makes it possible for Muslims and Buddhists to leave peacefully side by side? Whether this is just the calm before the storm remains a mystery&#8230;</p>
<h5>The Himalayas Lie At Your Feet.</h5>
<p>Leh isn’t very big and most parts can be navigated on foot &#8211; which is the best way to explore any city anyway. There are many excellent guesthouses and mid-range hotels to choose from, as well as numerous restaurants serving great Indian, Tibetan and Western food. <strong>Best food place in town is definitely <em>World Garden Cafe</em></strong>, where we actually ate something after three days of crackers and rice (it&#8217;s not India without a little vomiting). The most dominant structure is definitely Leh Palace built in the same style as the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. But also worth a visit is Shanti Stupa and Namgyal Tsemo Gompa. This monastery is the highest point in Leh with a fantastic birds eye view of the city. But be aware that if you&#8217;re still struggling with altitude sickness, the additional 200 metres can become a real challenge&#8230;</p>
<p><strong>From just about everywhere in Leh, you can see a sweeping panoramic view of the Himalayas rising above town. </strong>Maybe it&#8217;s the vibes of these great mountains that make Leh such an incredible place!</p>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/downtown-leh-ladhak-mosque-tibetian-prayer-flags-india.jpg" alt="In Leh, it’s the sights that act as a reminder of a spirit-centric population. There’s a great sense of peace in Ladakh, built on religious tolerance and respect for other cultures." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">In Leh, it’s the sights that act as a reminder of a spirit-centric population. There’s a great sense of peace in Ladakh, built on religious tolerance and respect for other cultures.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/leh-palace-ladakh-kashmir-india-1.jpg" alt="Leh Palace is the city's dominant structure and architectural icon." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Leh Palace is the city&#8217;s dominant structure and architectural icon.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Namgyal-Tsemo-leh-ladakh-kashmir-india-3.jpg" alt="Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is the highest point in Leh with a fantastic birds eye view of the city. One can reach the monastery with a short car ride or by trekking up right from the city centre." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is the highest point in Leh with a fantastic birds eye view of the city. One can reach the monastery with a short car ride or by trekking up right from the city centre.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/prayer-wheel-leh-ladakh-india.jpg" alt="Prayer wheels can be found across Leh. For us, they radiate peace and calmness, especially when in use..." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Prayer wheels can be found across Leh. For us, they radiate peace and calmness, especially when in use&#8230;</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/namgyal-tsemo-gompa-leh-ladakh-kashmir-india-1.jpg" alt="Namgyal Tsemo Gompa was founded in the early 15th century by King Tashi Namgyal." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Namgyal Tsemo Gompa was founded in the early 15th century by King Tashi Namgyal.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/namgyal-tsemo-gompa-leh-ladakh-kashmir-india.jpg" alt="Namgyal Tsemo Gompa stands atop behind Leh Palace. Because of its position, it offers some of the most amazing views of the town." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Namgyal Tsemo Gompa stands atop behind Leh Palace. Because of its position, it offers some of the most amazing views of the town.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/leh-palace-ladakh-kashmir-india.jpg" alt="leh-palace-ladakh-kashmir-india" width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Leh Palace is a nine-storey dun-coloured palace that has great similarity to the Potala Palace in Lhasa (Tibet).</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/leh-view-ladakh-kashmir-india.jpg" alt="From just about everywhere in Leh (here we were on our way to Leh Palace) you get a sweeping panoramic view of the Himalayas rising above town." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">From just about everywhere in Leh (here we were on our way to Leh Palace) you get a sweeping panoramic view of the Himalayas rising above town.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/market-woman-leh-ladakh-kashmir-india.jpg" alt="Leh's main Bazaar and the surrounding streets have numerous shops selling souvenirs, mostly Tibetan antiques or replicas." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Leh&#8217;s main Bazaar and the surrounding streets have numerous shops selling souvenirs, mostly Tibetan antiques or replicas.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/small-prayer-wheel-leh-ladakh-india.jpg" alt="Tibetan handicraft items including prayer wheels, Buddhist masks and paintings can be purchased at the markets in Leh." width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Tibetan handicraft items including prayer wheels, Buddhist masks and paintings can be purchased at the markets in Leh.</p></div>
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		<title>Tongariro Alpine Crossing: A Must When Visiting New Zealand.</title>
		<link>http://www.cookiesound.com/2014/03/tongariro-alpine-crossing-an-absolute-must-when-visiting-new-zealand/</link>
		<comments>http://www.cookiesound.com/2014/03/tongariro-alpine-crossing-an-absolute-must-when-visiting-new-zealand/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 05 Mar 2014 00:30:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nisa]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[New Zealand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Oceania]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hike]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tongariro Alpine Crossing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trekking]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.cookiesound.com/?p=9470</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When planning my trip to New Zealand, there were three things I wanted to do for sure: Rangitata Valley, the Milford Track and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Ok, I admit that there were a couple of others as well, but I revolved everything around these three. Since I flew into Auckland, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When <a href="http://www.cookiesound.com/2014/01/my-one-month-travel-route-through-new-zealand/">planning my trip to New Zealand</a>, there were three things I wanted to do for sure: <a href="http://www.cookiesound.com/2014/05/the-place-that-brought-tears-to-my-eyes-in-new-zealand-rangitata-valley/">Rangitata Valley</a>, the Milford Track and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Ok, I admit that there were a couple of others as well, but I revolved everything around these three.</p>
<p>Since I flew into Auckland, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing would be my first hike in New Zealand as it lies on the North island. It’s supposed to be one of the (if not THE) best one-day-treks in NZ. And I have to say (so far I can only agree).</p>
<h5>A Few Facts About The Tongariro Alpring Crossing.</h5>
<p>The Tongariro National Park is actually New Zealand’s oldest national parks and a World Heritage site. The three peaks &#8211; Mt. Tongariro, Mt. Ruapehu and Mt. Ngaruhoe (aka ‘Mt. Doom’) form one of the most spectacular landscapes in all of New Zealand. Mt. Tongariro and Mt. Ngaruhoe are still active volcanoes so one has to check the volcanic activity before attempting the track. Also, be sure to check out the weather before, since this can change in an instance. Be prepared for any weather conditions. On the day I went I was luck to have sunshine almost all the way.</p>
<ul>
<li>Total Length: 19.4km (without any side trips)</li>
<li>Time needed: 5-8 hours (depending on your fitness and not including stops or side trips)</li>
<li>Altitude: Start at Magatepopo car park approx. 1.000 metres / Red Crater approx. 1.900 metres</li>
<li>Tracks: Apart from the Crossing itself, there are three additional side tracks: Soda Springs, Mt. Ngaruhoe (approx. 2.300 metres / add another 3 hours) and Mt. Tongariro (approx. 2.000 metres / add another hour and a half)</li>
<li>Fitness level required: The track runs over steep volcanic terrain, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. If you decide to hike up Mt. Ngaruhoe, you definitely be to be very fit!</li>
</ul>
<h5>Magatepopo Valley to Soda Springs (1 to 1 and a half hours).</h5>
<p>You start your way through the Magatepopo Valley on even terrain. Then the track climbs alongside a steam and around edges of old lava flows.</p>
<h5>Soda Springs to South Crater (1 hour).</h5>
<p>The track climbs steadily. When gaining the 340metres to the South Crater, you’ll have  spectacular view on a clear day. Those wanting to climb up Mt. Ngaruhoe (including me), turn right at the top.</p>
<h5>Mt. Ngaruhoe (add 3 hours).</h5>
<p>After about one hour I got to the base of the volcano and decided to conquer ‘Mt. Doom’. So with about 20kg of camera equipment as well as water &amp; food supplies, I went on my way with a few other crazy peeps. Oh and it was quite a way. There is no marked route up the top, so you just have to find your own way (which is not too difficult I might add). The first 30 minutes are not too difficult, but once you get to the steep way up, be sure to have both hands ready. The rocks are super sharp and lose and the way up very tough. About half-way in, I realised that this was also the way down, which made me a bit nervous. So after about 2 and a half hours, I reached the crater (which is not the top top yet) and had to rest for a while. I then continued to the top and have to admit that I was pretty proud of myself for doing this without any training before. The defend only took me about 30 minutes. You pretty much run down the loose scoria and hope for the best. I fell once and my leg looked pretty bad afterwards, so watch your step! Was is worth it? Heck yeah. Would I do it again? Yes, but with less equipment because those 20kg really killed me in the end.</p>
<div id="attachment_9477" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-9477 size-full" title="Mt Ngauruhoe during the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/tongariro-alpine-crossing-mt-ngauruhoe-new-zealand.jpg" alt="Mt Ngauruhoe during the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Mt. Ngauruhoe on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_9479" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-9479 size-full" title="The view from the top of Mt. Ngauruhoe during the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/tongariro-alpine-crossing-view-from-mt-ngauruhoe-new-zealand.jpg" alt="The view from the top of Mt. Ngauruhoe during the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The view from the top of Mt. Ngauruhoe on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand.</p></div>
<div style="width: 1610px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/tongariro-alpine-crossing-mount-doom-new-zealand1.jpg" alt="tongariro-alpine-crossing-mount-doom-new-zealand" width="1600" height="1067" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Up on Mt. Ngauruhoe on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand.</p></div>
<h5>South Crater to Red Crater (45 minutes to 1 hour).</h5>
<p>You follow the route to a ridge leading put to the Red Crater. It’s not really a crater but basin. Looking in, you’ll see the very unusual formation. Yeah well, we all can guess what it reminds you of, but lets just leave it at that… From here, you can take the trip to the summit of Mt. Tongariro. I left that one out since my legs where already shaky at that point.</p>
<div id="attachment_9478" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-9478 size-full" title="The Red Crater on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/tongariro-alpine-crossing-red-crater-new-zealand.jpg" alt="The Red Crater on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The Red Crater on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand.</p></div>
<h5>Red Crater to Emerald Lakes (15 minutes).</h5>
<p>The summit of the Red Crater is the highest point during the Crossing. From here, it continuously descends. From the Red Crater to the Emerald Lakes the terrain is very lose again and you really have to watch your step carefully.</p>
<div id="attachment_9476" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-9476 size-full" title="Emerald Lakes during the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/tongariro-alpine-crossing-emeral-lakes-new-zealand.jpg" alt="Emerald Lakes during the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Emerald Lakes on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand.</p></div>
<h5>Emerald Lakes to Ketetahi Hut (1 hour to 1 and a half hour).</h5>
<p>The Crossing continues to the Blue Lake and the track slides around the flanks of the North Crater and then defends to Ketetahi Hut. This is was the first time when my legs really started getting to me…</p>
<div id="attachment_9475" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-9475 size-full" title="Blue Lake on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/tongariro-alpine-crossing-blue-lake-new-zealand.jpg" alt="Blue Lake on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Blue Lake on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand.</p></div>
<h5>Ketetahi Hut to Ketetahi Car Park (1 and a half to 2 hours).</h5>
<p>Continue along the track which defends through tussock slopes to the forest bush line. You’ll be surprised by the quick scenery change, which is a lovely sight at the end of the track again. Still, these last 2 hours where the hardest ones for me. I just wanted it all to come to an end…</p>
<div id="attachment_9480" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-9480 size-full" title="The walk down to Ketetahi Hut on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/tongariro-alpine-crossing-way-down-new-zealand.jpg" alt="The walk down to Ketetahi Hut on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The walk down to Ketetahi Hut on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand.</p></div>
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		<title>What To Bring On A 4-Week-Trip Through Southeast Asia.</title>
		<link>http://www.cookiesound.com/2013/05/what-to-bring-on-a-4-week-trip-through-southeast-asia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.cookiesound.com/2013/05/what-to-bring-on-a-4-week-trip-through-southeast-asia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 May 2013 06:09:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nisa]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Other]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[4 Week Trip]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Angkor Wat]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cambodia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indonesia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Inspiration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Malaysia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travelling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trekking]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.cookiesound.com/?p=8753</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Each time we get ready for another travel adventure, we ask ourselves the same question: &#8220;What shall we pack?&#8221;. One would think it gets easier each time, but that&#8217;s &#8211; unfortunately &#8211; not true, because packing our stuff always depends on what our plans are. For example, there are essentials to bring on an Indian [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Each time we get ready for another travel adventure, we ask ourselves the same question: &#8220;What shall we pack?&#8221;. One would think it gets easier each time, but that&#8217;s &#8211; unfortunately &#8211; not true, because packing our stuff always depends on what our plans are. For example, there are essentials to bring on an <a href="http://www.cookiesound.com/2011/08/indian-railways-tips-management-survival/">Indian train-trip</a>, which you don&#8217;t need when <a href="http://www.cookiesound.com/2011/09/motorbiking-through-cambodia/">motorbiking though Cambodia</a>&#8230;</p>
<p>This time, our destination is Southeast Asia; Malaysia, Cambodia and Indonesia to be exact. 4 weeks on the road. <strong>From <a href="http://www.cookiesound.com/2013/06/temple-running-through-angkor-wat-cambodia/">temple running in Angkor</a>, to <a href="http://www.cookiesound.com/2013/07/36-hours-in-kuala-lumpur-malaysia/">shopping sprees in Kuala Lumpur</a>, from a 10-hour-volcano-jungle-trek near Bukittingi to a quite beach holiday on the Mentawai Islands</strong> &#8211; we&#8217;ve got it all planned. We&#8217;re leaving today, so our bags are packed and now it&#8217;s all down to business!</p>
<div id="attachment_8763" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-8763 size-full" title="collage-travel-essentials-southeast-asia-4-weeks" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/collage-travel-essentials-southeast-asia-4-weeks.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="1404" /><p class="wp-caption-text">And here are our travel essentials for a 4-week trip through Southeast Asia.</p></div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>The Dragon&#8217;s Backbone Rice Terraces In Longsheng County, China.</title>
		<link>http://www.cookiesound.com/2012/09/the-dragons-backbone-rice-terraces-in-longsheng-china/</link>
		<comments>http://www.cookiesound.com/2012/09/the-dragons-backbone-rice-terraces-in-longsheng-china/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 17 Sep 2012 10:14:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nisa]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Asia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[China]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guilin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Longji Rice Terraces]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Longsheng]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rice Terraces]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trekking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Yangshuo]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.cookiesound.com/?p=7215</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Since our visit to Yangshuo was very disappointing, the trip through China could only get better. It really didn&#8217;t take long for us to realize, that we needed to leave this tourist trap spot asap. The Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng county were our next destination. Getting to Dazhai village was easier than we expected [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Since our visit to <a href="http://www.cookiesound.com/2012/08/the-truth-about-yangshuo-china/">Yangshuo</a> was very disappointing, the trip through China could only get better. It really didn&#8217;t take long for us to realize, that we needed to leave this tourist trap spot asap. The Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng county were our next destination.</p>
<p>Getting to Dazhai village was easier than we expected because everything went pretty smoothly; we walked to the bus station in Yangshuo and the bus to Guilin was ready to leave. The drive took about two hours and was totally uncomplicated. We knew that we needed to switch bus stations in Guilin to get to Heping. As soon as the bus pulled into the station and we stepped out, a tuk tuk driver picked us up and immediately brought us to the right station. Five minutes later, we were on our way. After about 20 minutes on the road, the landscape started getting much nicer and cable lines (finally) thinned out. Just after I fell asleep, the Chinese ticket man started screaming that we were in Heping and we needed to get out. It was a rude wake-up call but it was all good after we were in the truck to Dazhai.</p>
<p>Arriving on Dazhai village was like being back in time. It was so peaceful and calm, with fresh air and a stunning view. Dazhai is framed by world famous rice terraces that rise up to 1.200 meters: The Dragon&#8217;s Backbone Rice Terraces of Longsheng County. I felt right at home since it was not that different from our little villages in the Alps. Anyway, these rice terraces are the most well-known in China and were mostly built during the Ming Dynasty, about 500 years ago but construction actually began in the Yuan Dynasty (over 700 years ago)!</p>
<p>After soaking up all the great energy, we booked ourselves into a nice little guest house in the centre of Dazhai, where we had an amazing room with a great view and friendly staff. It couldn&#8217;t get any better than this.</p>
<div id="attachment_7231" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7231 size-full" title="dazhai-village-longji-rice-terraces-china-1" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dazhai-village-longji-rice-terraces-china-1.jpg" alt="Dazhai village in Longshend County, China." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Dazhai village in Longsheng County, China.</p></div>
<p>After settling in and seeing the rice terraces around us, I started realizing that it would be a very long and steep way to get a clear view from above. And I was right about that. But before we get to the stories and photos of that, I&#8217;d like to share the map of the terraces around Dazhai, since there are a lot on the internet that are just confusing and &#8230; well, wrong:</p>
<div id="attachment_7258" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7258 size-full" title="map-dragons-backbone-rice-terraces-longsheng-county-china" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/map-dragons-backbone-rice-terraces-longsheng-county-china.jpg" alt="Map of the rice terraces around Dazhai, China." width="1000" height="679" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Map of the rice terraces around Dazhai, China.</p></div>
<p>The three viewpoints around Dazhai are the best ones in the area. There is no need to visit Ping An or any other places (unless you really want to) because these three are the most stunning views you&#8217;ll find. Oh and by the way: Whoever said, that you could get lost when walking around the rice terraces alone must be a complete idiot! There is absolutely no way you can get lost (unless &#8211; as said &#8211; you&#8217;re an idiot); all ways somehow lead to Dazhai or Tiantou village. What <em>can</em> happen is that you take the wrong turn and just have to walk a couple of hours longer to get to your goal but that&#8217;s it. Always bring a bottle of water and you&#8217;ll be more than fine &#8230;</p>
<h5>Viewpoint Nr. 3 &#8220;Buddha&#8217;s Peak&#8221;.</h5>
<p>As Austrians, we know our way around mountains. Therefore, the three hour walk (you can do it in one hour as well but we wanted to explore the area a little bit) was like a piece of cake for us :) After what felt like about 5.000 steep steps, we got to the top and were more than impressed from the view.</p>
<div id="attachment_7239" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7239 size-full" title="longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china.jpg" alt="The famouse view of the Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces from viewpoint Nr. 3." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The famous view of the Dragon&#8217;s Backbone Rice Terraces from viewpoint Nr. 3.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7235" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7235 size-full" title="longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-4" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-4.jpg" alt="Dazhai village from viewpoint Nr. 1 on the Dragon's Backbone rice terrace." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Dazhai village from viewpoint Nr. 3.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7233" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7233 size-full" title="longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-2" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-2.jpg" alt="Longji Rice terraces ciewpoint Nr. 1." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Longji Rice terraces viewpoint Nr. 3.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7238" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7238 size-full" title="longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-7" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-7.jpg" alt="The view of Tiantou village from viewpoint Nr. 3." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The view of Tiantou village from viewpoint Nr. 3.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7237" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7237 size-full" title="longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-6" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-6.jpg" alt="Tiantou vilage in Longsheng County, China." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Tiantou village in Longsheng County, China.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7236" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7236 size-full" title="longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-5" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-5.jpg" alt="On the way up to viewpoint Nr. 3 of the Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">On the way up to viewpoint Nr. 3 of the Dragon&#8217;s Backbone Rice Terraces.</p></div>
<p>Unfortunately, the Chinese government is currently building a gigantic cable car from the parking lot to viewpoint Nr. 3 (which is the most famous one) and therefore, tourist crowds will soon overrun this place. This is definitely made for the fat and lazy &#8230; The station is supposed to be finished this October &#8230; from then on, it can only go downhill because mass tourism in China is &#8230; well, pretty massive.</p>
<h5>Viewpoint Nr. 2 &#8221; Thousand Layers to Heaven&#8221;.</h5>
<p>On the second day, we decided to check out viewpoint Nr. 2 and Nr. 1. Getting to Nr. 2 is pretty easy because it&#8217;s the lowest ones out of the three. The walk takes 30 minutes and is not that steep. Still, you have a great view of the scenery and landscape around Dazhai.</p>
<div id="attachment_7240" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7240 size-full" title="longji-rice-terraces-dazhai-village-china" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/longji-rice-terraces-dazhai-village-china.jpg" alt="Close up of the rice terraces in Longsheng county, China." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Close up of the rice terraces in Longsheng county, China.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7248" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7248 size-full" title="longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-viewpoint-nr-2" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-viewpoint-nr-2.jpg" alt="View of Dazhai from Viewpoint Nr. 2 &quot;Thousand Layers to Heaven&quot;." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">View of Dazhai from Viewpoint Nr. 2 &#8220;Thousand Layers to Heaven&#8221;.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7249" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7249 size-full" title="dragon-backbone-rice-terraces-china-viewpoint-nr-2" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-rice-terraces-china-viewpoint-nr-2.jpg" alt="Rice terraces from Viewpoint Nr. 2 in Longsheng County, China." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Rice terraces from Viewpoint Nr. 2 in Longsheng County, China.</p></div>
<h5>Viewpoint Nr. 1 &#8221; Music for Paradise&#8221;.</h5>
<p>Viewpoint Nr. 1 is the highest one around Dazhai. It&#8217;s peak is at 1.200 meters and it takes about three hours to get up there. Again, you can probably to it on 1 1/2 hours but where&#8217;s the fun in that?</p>
<div id="attachment_7232" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7232 size-full" title="dazhai-village-longji-rice-terraces-china" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/dazhai-village-longji-rice-terraces-china.jpg" alt="Walking back down from viewpoint Nr. 1 in Longshend County, China." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Walking back down from viewpoint Nr. 1 &#8220;Music for Paradise&#8221;.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7247" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7247 size-full" title="dragons-backbone-china-viewpoint-nr-1" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/longji-rice-terrace-dazhai-dragon-backbone-china-viewpoint-nr-1.jpg" alt="Rice Terraces from Viewpoint Nr. 1 &quot; Music for Paradise&quot;" width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Rice Terraces from Viewpoint Nr. 1 &#8221; Music for Paradise&#8221;</p></div>
<p>All in all, the Dragon&#8217;s Backbone Rice Terraces were absolutely stunning. They truly are the most impressive we’ve every seen and I’m pretty sure nothing can top that any time soon. One more good thing: I though that I was pretty fit before we visited Dazhai but after we left, my bum and thighs where more trained ;) All these steep steps have a positive effect on your figure. For those who don&#8217;t need (or better <em>want</em>) to get in shape, you can rent a palanquin with four strong Chinese men to carry you up to the top. You will surely get a lot of looks from the locals if you decide to go with this. Honestly, I thought it was the most ridiculous thing ever (unless your old or sick), especially because the ones sitting in those chairs are mostly overweight and uninterested in the scenery anyway. To each his own. We still prefer the old fashioned way of actually moving your ass :D</p>
<div id="attachment_7241" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7241 size-full" title="nisa-maier-dazhai-longji-rice-terraces-china" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/nisa-maier-dazhai-longji-rice-terraces-china.jpg" alt="In the middle of the Dragon's Backbone Rice Terraces." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">In the middle of the Dragon&#8217;s Backbone Rice Terraces.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_7242" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-7242 size-full" title="ulli-maier-dazhai-longji-rice-terraces-china" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/ulli-maier-dazhai-longji-rice-terraces-china.jpg" alt="Up at viewpoint Nr. 3 in Longshend County, China." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Up at viewpoint Nr. 3 in Longshend County, China.</p></div>
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		<title>Sumatra Is A Tropical Paradise In Indonesia.</title>
		<link>http://www.cookiesound.com/2012/04/sumatra-a-tropical-paradise-in-indonesia/</link>
		<comments>http://www.cookiesound.com/2012/04/sumatra-a-tropical-paradise-in-indonesia/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 22 Apr 2012 10:17:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nisa]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Asia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indonesia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Beach]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Beach Paradise]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Coast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Earthquake]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sumatra]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trekking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tropical Paradise]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.cookiesound.com/?p=6391</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[What the first thought that comes to your mind when thinking about Sumatra? Many of us will associate Sumatra with events from a few years ago: the Tsunami in 2004, the earthquake in 2009 which rattled Padang really heavily, some volcanic eruptions and also a few bad plane crashes. Yes, all these things happened (and [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>What the first thought that comes to your mind when thinking about Sumatra? Many of us will associate Sumatra with events from a few years ago: the Tsunami in 2004, the earthquake in 2009 which rattled Padang really heavily, some volcanic eruptions and also a few bad plane crashes. Yes, all these things happened (and some of them still do) but Sumatra still has so much to offer for interested travellers.</p>
<h5>Mountains In Sumatra.</h5>
<p>Gunung Kerinci is an active volcano and with 3.805 meters it&#8217;s also the highest mountain yet still (more or less) easy accessible. With the occasional eruptions, the walk through the rainforest is incredible because the flora there is so rich and beautiful.</p>
<h5>National Parks In Sumatra.</h5>
<p>Gunung Leuser National Park is still a true virgin rainforest &#8211; thanks to the difficult terrain. The park is a world heritage site since 2004 and a great choice for trekking or watching the wildlife. Bukit Lawang was the most famous Orang Utan Rehabilitation Center, which adjacent to Gunung Leuser National Park, but since a torrential flash flood swept through the valley in 2003 (a few tourists and about 250 locals died &amp; the entire village was destroyed) the Orang Utan (translates: Orang = person, Utan = forest) Center was relocated to Bukit Tigah Puluh National Park. This park is about 200 km East of Padang, where you can even see the rare Sumatran Tiger. This National Park is not so well known and a good way away from the beaten path so therefore everything is much more authentic and a bit more difficult to access. Unfortunately Sumatra is not spared from deforestation (of course). It is threatening the entire area around these wonderful National Parks. The land is cleared for planting oil palms (elaeis guinneensis) and teak.</p>
<h5>Lakes In Sumatra.</h5>
<p>Sumatra also offers you some really beautiful lakes: the most famous one is Danau (= lake) Toba with a very large island in the middle. Lots of guest-houses wait for exhausted travellers and it&#8217;s a a really nice area to rest for a couple of days. We visited Danau Singkarak on our last trip to Sumatra. We drove around by motorbike along the rice paddies &#8211; it was an easy ride yet we still got to see some wonderful impressions. For example we drive through a couple of villages where thousands of fish were dried along the road (I guess these lakes still contain a lot of fish).</p>
<h5>Culture In Sumatra.</h5>
<p>Sumatra is rich in culture and tribal heritage. People still use local methods for all kind of their daily routine. For example: to make yoghurt you simply need fresh bamboo, cut it in pieces and fill it up with fresh cow milk. Let it stand for a couple of hours (in the warm climate) and you get the best yoghurt. It was the best one we&#8217;ve eaten throughout our southeast Asia trip! Milk products are one of the few things that we really miss during our travels, so this is a good recipe.</p>
<h5>Beaches In Sumatra.</h5>
<p>And then of course there are the beaches &#8230; lots of <a href="http://www.cookiesound.com/2011/08/beach-paradise-in-sumatra-indonesia/">wonderful tropical beaches</a>. We&#8217;ve seen many many amazing beaches during our years of travelling but Sumatra&#8217;s coast (plus the Mentawai Islands) truly is one of the best places for a beach adventure &#8211; without breaking your budget. The surf is abundant and one of the best surf spots in the world (Nias) can be found on these islands.</p>
<p>You should be a bit adventurous, flexible and curious to explore this part of the world because it is still not an area for a package tourist. Get in touch with us for further information and travel tips :)</p>
<h5>Here Are Some Impression Of Sumatra:</h5>
<div id="attachment_10598" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10598 size-full" title="rice-fields-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/rice-fields-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="Sumatra has thick virgin forests, lush vegetation, rice fields, mountain streams, rivers, waterfalls and sandy beaches." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Sumatra has thick virgin forests, lush vegetation, rice fields, mountain streams, rivers, waterfalls and sandy beaches.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_10589" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10589 size-full" title="boat-trip-islands-west-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/boat-trip-islands-west-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="Island hopping in Sumatra is a great way to explore the wonderful tropical beaches." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Island hopping in Sumatra is a great way to explore the wonderful tropical beaches.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_10593" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10593 size-full" title="market-woman-padang-market-west-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/market-woman-padang-market-west-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="Striking evidence of the earthquake remains in the city of Padang in spots like Pasar Raya, the central market, a massive hulk of collapsed concrete around which vendors have set up hundreds of makeshift shops." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Striking evidence of the earthquake remains in the city of Padang in spots like Pasar Raya, the central market, a massive hulk of collapsed concrete around which vendors have set up hundreds of makeshift shops.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_10595" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10595 size-full" title="padang-wet-market-tuna-fish-west-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/padang-wet-market-tuna-fish-west-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="Fish is a staple food across the entire country. Fresh tuna can be bought at almost every local market in Sumatra." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Fish is a staple food across the entire country. Fresh tuna can be bought at almost every local market in Sumatra.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_10596" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10596 size-full" title="pimp-my-ride-padang-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/pimp-my-ride-padang-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="Bemos are the local taxi's all over Indonesia with Padang as a major hub." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Bemos are the local taxi&#8217;s all over Indonesia with Padang as a major hub.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_10592" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10592 size-full" title="local-house-in-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/local-house-in-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="And old abandoned typical house &quot;Sumatra Style&quot;." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">And old abandoned typical house &#8220;Sumatra Style&#8221;.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_10591" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10591 size-full" title="living-root-bridge-west-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/living-root-bridge-west-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="Jembatan Akar is Indonesia's Living Root Bridge. Located over the Batang Bayang river in West Sumatra, Indonesia, a bridge made of living tree roots connects two villages." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Jembatan Akar is Indonesia&#8217;s Living Root Bridge. Located over the Batang Bayang river in West Sumatra, Indonesia, a bridge made of living tree roots connects two villages.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_6402" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-6402 size-full" title="fishermen-island-paradise-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/fishermen-island-paradise-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="Fishermen in Sumatra, Indonesia." width="1024" height="682" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Fishermen in their typical fishing boat off the coast of Sumatra.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_10599" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10599 size-full" title="woman-working-rice-fields-padang-west-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/woman-working-rice-fields-padang-west-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="A woman glances up while working in a rice field in Sumatra." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">A woman glances up while working in a rice field in Sumatra.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_10590" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10590 size-full" title="fishermen-bungus-beach-padang-west-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/fishermen-bungus-beach-padang-west-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="Fishermen pulling in a catch at Bungus beach in Sumatra." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Fishermen pulling in a catch at Bungus beach in Sumatra.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_10594" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10594 size-full" title="padang-kitchen-west-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/padang-kitchen-west-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="Padang Kitchen is the best cuisine in the world. You're served several different dishes on small plates. Only what you eat has to be paid." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Padang Kitchen is the best cuisine in the world. You&#8217;re served several different dishes on small plates. Only what you eat has to be paid.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_6415" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-6415 size-full" title="orang-utan-bukittinggi-zoo-captivity-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/orang-utan-bukkitingi-zoo-captivity-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="An Orang Utan in thr zoo of Bukittinggi in Sumatra. Stop animal captivity!" width="1024" height="682" /><p class="wp-caption-text">A sad-looking Orang Utan in the zoo of Bukittinggi in Sumatra. Stop animal captivity!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_6413" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-6413 size-full" title="sunken-ship-padang-sumatra" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/sunken-ship-padang-sumatra.jpg" alt="Wrecked ship off the coast of Padang in Sumatra, Indonesia." width="1024" height="682" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Wrecked tanker ship off the coast of Padang in Sumatra.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_10597" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-10597 size-full" title="portrait-smiling-man-sumatra-indonesia" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/portrait-smiling-man-sumatra-indonesia.jpg" alt="The people in Sumatra (and actually all over Indonesia) are friendly and welcoming." width="1200" height="800" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The people in Sumatra (and actually all over Indonesia) are friendly and welcoming.</p></div>
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		<title>The Gibbon Experience &#8211; Tree House In The Jungle Of Laos.</title>
		<link>http://www.cookiesound.com/2009/08/tree-house-in-laos-gibbon-experience/</link>
		<comments>http://www.cookiesound.com/2009/08/tree-house-in-laos-gibbon-experience/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:10:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nisa]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Asia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Laos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adventure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gibbon Experience]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jungle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Landscape]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tree House]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trekking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Zipping]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.cookiesound.com/?p=552</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The idea. Poaching, logging and slash-and-burn farming are destroying primary forest and its inhabitants in South East Asia. This crazy french guy had a vision to protect the jungle and with the help of the local people, started building tree houses and a network of zip lines through the canopy of Bokeo Nature Reserve. The [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_1868" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="  wp-image-1868 size-full" title="laos-tree-house-gibbon-experience" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/laos-tree-house-gibbon-experience.jpg" alt="Adrenalin meets conservation in this eco-friendly adventure in the Bokeo Nature Reserve wilderness. The Gibbon Experience is a series of  'ziplines' criss-crossing the canopy of some of Laos' most pristine forest, home to the black-crested gibbon. Above is the main treehouse from where all the zipping action starts." width="1024" height="683" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Adrenalin meets conservation in this eco-friendly adventure in the Bokeo Nature Reserve wilderness. The Gibbon Experience is a series of  &#8216;ziplines&#8217; criss-crossing the canopy of some of Laos&#8217; most pristine forest, home to the black-crested gibbon. Above is the main treehouse from where all the zipping action starts.</p></div>
<h4>The idea.</h4>
<p>Poaching, logging and slash-and-burn farming are destroying primary forest and its inhabitants in South East Asia.</p>
<p>This crazy french guy had a vision to protect the jungle and with the help of the local people, started building tree houses and a network of zip lines through the canopy of Bokeo Nature Reserve. The concept of <a href="http://www.gibbonexperience.org/">The Gibbon Experience</a> emerged. The Gibbon Experience provides accomodation in the treetops (into which he first had to climb into for adjusting the first cable) and you can &#8220;fly&#8221; over the forest to meet the wildlife. The funds received are reinvested to protect the forest.</p>
<div id="attachment_2419" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-2419 size-full" title="zapping-laos-gibbon-experience" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/zapping-laos-gibbon-experience.jpg" alt="Zipping through the jungle 100 meters above the ground." width="1024" height="683" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The Gibbon Experience is the closest you will ever get to playing Tarzan; living up 40m above the ground in a tree-house within thickly forested hills and swinging high across valleys on incredible ziplines, some more than 500m long.</p></div>
<h4>Zipping.</h4>
<p>This was the most fun I have ever had! All I did for three days was zip from one platform to the next. If feels just like flying when you&#8217;re over 100 meters above the ground. Fantastic! In between the zips you walk through the Laos rainforest to get to the next zipping point.</p>
<div id="attachment_2579" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-2579 size-full" title="zipping-gibbon-experience-laos" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/zipping-gibbon-experience-laos.jpg" alt="For me, the Gibbon Experience made me feel like a real superhero. The days where filled with zipping through the jungle." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">For me, the Gibbon Experience made me feel like a real superhero. The days where filled with zipping through the jungle.</p></div>
<h4>Rainy season.</h4>
<p>If you visit the Gibbon tree house during the rainy season, it can happen that your car gets stuck in mud and you have to walk the distance to the tree house for about 8 hours. While we were there, we had to walk both directions (2 x 8 hours = 16 hours!) because it was simply too muddy for the truck to get through. It&#8217;s more than hardcore trekking but it&#8217;s a wild experience as well!</p>
<div id="attachment_2420" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-2420 size-full" title="stuck-jungle-laos-gibbon-experience" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/stuck-jungle-laos-gibbon-experience.jpg" alt="We did the Gibbon Experience during the rainy season, which meant walking a lot more due to the fact that the car couldn't bring us into the jungle. Back then it was a pain in the ass, but today I wouldn't want to miss out on this special adventure." width="1024" height="682" /><p class="wp-caption-text">We did the Gibbon Experience during the rainy season, which meant walking a lot more due to the fact that the car couldn&#8217;t bring us into the jungle. Back then it was a pain in the ass, but today I wouldn&#8217;t want to miss out on this special adventure.</p></div>
<h4>Dresscode.</h4>
<p>So, don&#8217;t just bring your trekking shoes but also comfortable cloths. Nothing fancy becasue everything&#8217;s going to be dirty within the first couple of meters (as you can see below &#8211; and no, I didn&#8217;t slip!). While zipping your cloths might also get some oil stains and we all know how hard it is to get them out if you don&#8217;t have a washing machine on hand. Bring a rain coat (or buy one there) and make sure your bags are waterproof becasue it can rain, and rain, and rain for hours. Pull your socks over your pants to make sure leeches don&#8217;t get a chance to suck your blood (one girl didn&#8217;t do that and she had about 10 on each leg &#8211; not fun!).</p>
<div id="attachment_2575" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-2575 size-full" title="gibbon-experience-trekking" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/gibbon-experience-trekking.jpg" alt="Bring comfy cloths &amp; shoes for the hike. It's also advisable to bring a torch, water bottle and gloves, but otherwise leave most of your baggage behind. Everything you bring you must carry in and out of the jungle yourself." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Bring comfy cloths &amp; shoes for the hike. It&#8217;s also advisable to bring a torch, water bottle and gloves, but otherwise leave most of your baggage behind. Everything you bring you must carry in and out of the jungle yourself.</p></div>
<h4>Shoes.</h4>
<p>If you don&#8217;t have the most comfy shoes, get rid of them immediately! Buy a local pair of shoes. They are 100 % plastic and definitely the best ones for this kind of hike! I can really recommend them to you. You can buy them at the local shop where you stop before you&#8217;re on your way to the tree house.</p>
<div id="attachment_2576" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-2576 size-full" title="shoes-gibbon-experience" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/shoes-gibbon-experience.jpg" alt="The best shoes for the Gibbon Experience are the ones you get in the hut just before you board the truck. The local guides also wear these and they know why. And after all, you're not going to a Hollywood movie premier." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The best shoes for the Gibbon Experience are the ones you get in the hut just before you board the truck. The local guides also wear these and they know why. And after all, you&#8217;re not going to a Hollywood movie premier.</p></div>
<h4>The tree house.</h4>
<p>Once you made the 8 hour hike, you&#8217;ll arrive at the fantastic Gibbon tree house. Soon you&#8217;ll realize that it was all worth it. The tree house is not huge but that&#8217;s why there&#8217;s a limit of 10 people for each expedition. Everything is amazing about this adventure and I can&#8217;t wait to go back there again!</p>
<div id="attachment_2583" style="width: 1010px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img class="wp-image-2583 size-full" title="gibbon-experience-tree-house" src="http://www.cookiesound.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/gibbon-experience-tree-house.jpg" alt="The living &amp; dining room of the tree house. At night, large spiders on the walls and rats rustling in the ceilings will be your companions, but you're in the jungle after all." width="1000" height="667" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The living &amp; dining room of the tree house. At night, large spiders on the walls and rats rustling in the ceilings will be your companions, but you&#8217;re in the jungle after all.</p></div>
<h4> Helpful tips.</h4>
<p>The following items should be brought by everyone:</p>
<ul>
<li>Flash-light.</li>
<li>Mosquito repellent.</li>
<li>Gloves for zipping!</li>
<li>A water bottle for the hike.</li>
<li>A book for those who don&#8217;t want to zip all day.</li>
<li>A couple of cereal bars.</li>
<li>Fully loaded batteries &amp; reserve battery packs.</li>
</ul>
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