subject: What To Look For In A World Rafting Company [print this page] Few would argue the fact: rafting is awesomeFew would argue the fact: rafting is awesome. But taking rafting overseas is awesome on steroids. This planet is a big place, and with thousands of raft-worthy rivers, unexplored jungles, plummeting ravines, pristine forests, and natural beauty bursting on every continent, there is a treasure trove of awesomeness for the avid rafter who is looking to up the ante in his or her rafting experience.
Quality rafting travel doesn't come easy, though. Few world rafting tours hold the standard high enough in order to offer a thoroughly enjoyable world rafting encounter. Several key components have to be in place in order to qualify a rafting company for world travel.
Trained Professionals
Good rafting starts with good guides. These are the people that will set the tone for the adventure, ensure the guests safety, navigate the complexities of the river, and protect the natural resources. Not just anybody can handle being a guide, though. For that reason, world rafting companies have to have highly trained professionals. A familiarity with rafting is not enough. The guide should have previous experience navigating the rafting destination, so he can anticipate the unexpected drop or sudden rapids. For trips lasting multiple days, knowing the vicissitudes of weather, night temperatures, camping spots, as well as the potential dangers from local plants and animals is also crucial. Equally important is the ability to have fun. Guides should know when to yell, "paddle!" and when to crack a joke. Rafting is all about enjoying nature, and rafting guides are the best people to help do this on the river.
Undiluted Adventure
One major reason why you would drop a lot of money to get on a plane and land in a different country is to seek adventure. There is lots of adventure to be had on overseas rafting expeditions, and the really great rafting companies know how to get it. Whether it's the exhilarating rush of the Zambezi in Africa or the unheard-of Matsiatra River in the mystical island of Madagascar, a rafting expedition offers a level of adventure beyond the ordinary.
Flat-out Fun
Although roughing it and going native are fun for a while, an expedition needs to reward itself. Spending a day in area tourist destinations or bunking out in a five-star hotel is a great way to refresh after an exhilarating rafting adventure. Look for a world rafting tour that will offer both the chance for pure adventure while mingled with a touch of class. You'll be glad you did.
Authentic Culture
When embarking on a world rafting trip, you have a rare opportunity to witness a culture vastly different from your own. Observing, appreciating, and profiting from the crossing of cultures is another valuable quality to look for in a world rafting tour. Beware of the companies who ride rough shod over local culture, or who shield their guests from seeing and experiencing local tradition, shopping, or cuisine. Instead, select a tour company whose sensitivity to and experience of the culture are authentic.
World rafting is an experience of a lifetime -for good or for bad. Choosing a rafting company that uses expert guides to dish out adventure, fun, and a true cultural experience will be one of the most valuable and unforgettable experiences you've ever had.
by: Rickey Pearce
welcome to Insurances.net (https://www.insurances.net)
