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Mount FujiSacred Spaces in Fuji, Japan Fuji San is frequently, but mistakenly, spoken of as the most sacred mountain in Japan. While there is no such thing as a most sacred mountain in Japan, Fuji has become famous as a national symbol because it is the highest peak in the country (12,388 feet), it is one of the most symmetrical volcano cones in the world, and it is visible from the city of Tokyo, only 60 miles away. Younger than many Japanese mountains, Fuji began to rise only 25,000 years ago and had probably assumed its general form by 8000 BC. Occasionally smoking since its last major eruption in 1707, the mountain has an ancient body of myths regarding its divine origins, resident deities, and spiritual powers. The beautiful peak has been venerated as the home of a fire god, later the dwelling of a Shinto goddess of flowing trees, and since Buddhist times, as the abode of Dainichi Nyorai, the Buddha of All-Illuminating Wisdom. While scholars debate the origin of the mountain's name, one of the most commonly used means ‘Everlasting Life.’ According to early myths the mountain was first climbed by the wizard-sage En no Gyoja around 700 AD, but it is more likely that the first ascents began in the 12th or 13th centuries. Today, more than 400,000 people climb the mountain annually. The mountain is called Fuji San, the ‘san’ being an indication of deep respect.
Photo: Fuji San with Tokyo
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Review by Photo by flickr user robertpaulyoung |
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Aphrodite and Adonis Walks, AkamasWalking in Cyprus These lovely trail names, the Aphrodite and Adonis run along the coastline of Cyprus between archaeologically interesting spots, old towns, farms with fruit and olive groves and beautiful views. Begin near Polis then follow the Adonis Trail up to the Moutti tis Sotiras for views almost to Turkey and the pool, spectacular in it’s natural beauty, where Aphrodite and Adonis bathed before following the coastline round to the monastery of Agios Georgios. Passing between Mount Olympus and the ocean the land is covered in vineyards and you’ll see the abandoned village of Terra. A detour up Mount Olympus will add a day to your trip but is worth considering for the view. It’s not particularly difficult, the trail is rocky and on a cooler sunnier day this could easily be the highlight of your trip. Past the town of Drouseia is the chapel of Ayia Paraskevi with it’s beautiful view of the coves below it and above that the town of Kato Akourdaleia. Below this town and along the coastline is Lara Bay which was steep to get to but where turtles are supposed to lay their eggs. There are several possible itineraries around the Akamas region and these sights are just a few of the possibilities. The nice thing about the region is the varied sights and the way you can plan your route around the themes you’re most interested in be it history, mythology or natural beauty. I think everyone will enjoy something about this beautiful area. There is also plenty of accommodation to choose from. Take proper walking boots to stay comfortable and carry water at all times.
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Review by Photo by flickr user Leonid Mamchenkov |
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Muirfield Golf CourseGolf in Scotland, United Kingdom Designed in 1891 Muirfield Golf Course is one of the most famous golf courses as well as one of the best golf courses in the world. Since then it has hosted over a dozen Open Golf Championships, as well as the Ryder, Walker and Curtis Cups. Just under 7000 yards, its numerous rough bunkers make it a challenging golf course, but its location on the edge of the Firth of Forth with close proximity to Edinburgh make it much sought after as a 'trophy' golf course.
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Review by Photo by flickr user foxypar4 |
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Riding in the Okavango DeltaHorse Riding in NW Botswana, Botswana This highly personalised safari is run by owners PJ and Barney Bestelink and is probably one of the best riding safaris in Africa. To ride in Africa is a magical experience, and to ride in the Okavango Delta the ultimate of magical experiences. On horseback you can get closer to game than you ever dreamed possible... when you are on horseback the animals don’t perceive you as a threat- you are truly part of the bush. Imagine yourself mounted high above the long grass and reeds watching great herds of zebra, wildebeest and lechwe as they move across golden floodplains, imagine cantering through the shallow floodplains the spray refreshing in the heat of the day or imagine the breathtaking excitement when your silent progress along game trails used only by the animals brings you upon a herd of buffalo or a family group of elephant!
Between May and September the floodwaters from the Angola highlands reach the Okavango Delta in Botswana. When the waters are high you may need to swim your horse over rivers or wade him between the islands but along the island’s edges the going stays firm, allowing for plenty of faster riding. Apart from the fabulous riding one can enjoy game drives, night drives and even some walking and mokoro (dug-out canoe) excursions.
You will need to be an experienced rider and reasonably riding fit. Expect to ride for about 4 hours in the morning (2 in the afternoon), and be prepared to get off and lead your horse every couple of hours to give its back (and your legs) a much needed break! There are plenty of long trots and steady canters as well as leisurely walks along game trails.
Barney is an outstanding horsewoman and has an unerring ability to suit horse and rider – whether you are a happy weekend hacker or an International competition rider. Hers horses are all much loved, well looked after and excellently schooled – and the tack is good quality and superbly maintained.
The main camp, Kujwana, where you start and finish your safari, is situated on the banks of the Xudum River – some half hour by light aircraft from Maun - and accommodates a maximum of ten guests in luxurious and spacious safari tents, each with bathrooms en-suite. The safari can be five, seven or ten nights. On the 5 and 7-night safari you will visit either Moklowane or Qwaapu fly camp for a 2 night stay as well as staying Kujwana. On the 10-night safari you will ride from Kujwana to both other camps so you are able to explore a larger area of the Okavango. Accommodation at Moklowane Camp is in tree houses with private facilities. Qwaapu Fly Camp is temporary and the site moves according to access with water levels. The camp consists of walk in ‘Chobe’ tents with adjacent private ablutions and a mess tent.
For more information contact www.okavangohorse.com
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Review by Photo by Louisa Begg |
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The Great Walk of AfricaTrekking in Tanzania For those who enjoy a serious hiking trip, but want something very unusual, this is a unique trip sharing the trail with lions, elephants and other wild beasts for eleven days. Starting in Tsavo West National Park, just below the majestic summit of Kilimanjaro, you hike along the Tsavo River, and then the Galana River all the way to the Indian Ocean across one of the largest protected wilderness areas in all of Africa. During the day you need to hike with the escort of armed rangers. Best to go in a group and at night you meet up at a pre-decided spot where a crew has already set up camp and is ready to serve dinner around a campfire. At the end of the hike, you can enjoy a couple of days in luxury by a sandy beach on the Indian Ocean. Certainly an unforgettable journey! Except for the rainy seasons of April/May and November, this trip can operate year round.
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Review by Photo by flickr user DanieVDM |
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