Opening Chat
Hey everyone, I'm Xiao Lu. As a seasoned adventurer who has explored major outdoor destinations worldwide, I'd like to share my interesting experiences from years of exploring outdoor activities around the globe. Every time I think about my outdoor adventures worldwide, that adrenaline rush is absolutely intoxicating! To be honest, I still get super excited thinking about it now.
I remember feeling both nervous and excited when I first set out with my backpack, like I was about to embark on an unknown adventure. Over the years, from Asia to Europe, from Americas to Africa, each journey has deepened my understanding and love for outdoor activities. Without exaggeration, outdoor adventure has become an indispensable part of my life.
Land Adventures
When it comes to outdoor activities, hiking and mountaineering are definitely the best choices for beginners. I still remember my first hiking experience in the Japanese Alps on a particularly crisp autumn morning. The moment I stepped onto the trail, the maple leaves were just starting to turn red, and there was a faint scent of vegetation in the air. The Japanese hikers we met along the way were incredibly friendly, and although we couldn't speak each other's language, communicating through gestures made the experience even more memorable.
Japan's hiking system is really perfect for beginners. Their trail markers are touching in their clarity, and you can find supply stations almost every few kilometers, some even offering hot noodle soup! I must say, this spirit of service excellence is very Japanese. From Mount Fuji to Tateyama Kurobe, from Kamikochi to Yakushima, each trail has detailed difficulty ratings and time estimates, so you don't have to worry about getting lost or running out of energy.
But if you ask me about my most stunning hiking experience, it has to be Nepal's Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit. These two trails are truly the ultimate dream for hikers! The 230-kilometer Annapurna Circuit isn't particularly long or short, but every step is challenging. I remember the day crossing Thorong La Pass, where the altitude of 5,416 meters made every breath precious. We woke up at 4 AM and hiked in the dark under starlight just to reach the pass at sunrise. When the first ray of sunlight hit the snow-capped peaks, that feeling was truly indescribable.
On this trail, you'll meet hikers from all over the world. There were newly retired couples fulfilling their dreams, young people challenging themselves during their vacation, and even families with 10-year-old children experiencing the trek. Everyone helps each other, sharing food and medicine, and language barriers can't stop this pure friendship. Every year, 150,000 people complete the circuit, and behind this number are countless touching stories and unforgettable memories.
Water Paradise
Calm Water Cruising
Water sports are definitely the best choice for summer, and kayaking and paddleboarding are my favorites. Last year's kayaking experience on Lake Lucerne in Switzerland was like traveling through a fairy tale. The morning lake surface was sparkling, with snow-capped mountains in the distance and elegant European architecture nearby - this dreamlike scenery made me press the shutter again and again.
The weather that morning was particularly cooperative, with the lake surface as smooth as a mirror, reflecting everything around it. We paddled slowly along the shoreline, occasionally seeing flocks of wild ducks swimming by. The most interesting part was encountering a group of swans! They weren't afraid of people at all, leisurely swimming around our kayaks. That feeling of zero-distance contact with nature was truly refreshing.
Another advantage of boating on Lake Lucerne is that you can stop and rest anytime. The lakeside is dotted with charming towns, and you can enjoy authentic Swiss cuisine at any dock you choose. I remember that afternoon, we stopped at a small town called Weggis and ordered a Swiss cheese fondue - it was absolutely heavenly with the lake and mountain views.
Rapids Adventure
If you think calm water paddling is too mild, then you must try white water rafting on the Zambezi River! This isn't ordinary rafting - it's an extreme sport that will really get your adrenaline pumping. The 23 class IV and above rapids on the Zambezi River are each a severe test of courage and skill.
I'll never forget my rafting experience at the Victoria Falls section. It was a class V rapid with water so turbulent it made your heart race. Put on your life jacket, wear your helmet, grip your paddle tight, and be ready for any situation. The instructor's commands must be executed immediately - any hesitation could overturn the entire raft. But it's this perfect combination of danger and excitement that makes the Zambezi River a pilgrimage site for rafting enthusiasts worldwide.
During rafting, you not only have to battle the rapids but also watch out for wildlife on the riverbanks. Hippos and crocodiles are regulars here, and while they usually don't actively attack rafts, it's always better to stay alert. Of the 20,000 adventurers who come here to challenge themselves each year, quite a few choose to raft for several days, camping on the riverbank at night. Imagine falling asleep under the African sky, listening to the flowing river and wildlife sounds - it's just too cool!
African Adventures
Wilderness Exploration
Speaking of Africa, I must mention Serengeti National Park. It's like a real-life version of "Wildlife"! Every year from July to October, over 2 million wildebeest and zebras form a great migration, creating a spectacle that's absolutely stunning. I witnessed this phenomenon last year, and it's truly unforgettable.
Imagine an endless savanna where countless wildebeest and zebras form a line stretching for kilometers. They must cross nearly 1,000 kilometers, facing numerous dangers along the way. The most heart-stopping scenes are at river crossings, where numerous crocodiles lurk in the Mara River and hungry lions watch from the banks. Yet, survival instinct drives these animals to plunge into the river without hesitation. Watching them struggle across the river and finally reach the other bank safely brought tears to my eyes.
In the Serengeti, each day is a new adventure. We wake up at five in the morning to set out in 4x4 vehicles looking for wildlife. The sunrise over the savanna is breathtaking, with golden light spilling over the endless grasslands, occasionally spotting giraffes leisurely feeding among the acacia trees. If you're lucky, you might witness the stunning scene of lions hunting in the morning light.
Unique Character
Speaking of unique outdoor experiences, Madagascar is definitely a place full of surprises. This island nation, known as the "Eighth Continent," is like a huge natural museum. 90% of the species here are unique, especially those adorable lemurs that are absolutely heart-melting.
While hiking in Isalo National Park, you might have a close encounter with lemurs at any time. These little creatures are very curious and sometimes jump onto nearby branches, tilting their heads to observe you. Although Crown Mountain in the park is only 2,658 meters high, climbing it isn't easy at all. The humidity and stuffiness of the tropical rainforest make every step extremely challenging. However, when you finally reach the summit and see the stretching rainforest below and the blue Indian Ocean in the distance, all fatigue disappears.
Madagascar's terrain is also very unique, from tropical rainforests to dry savannas, from limestone landscapes to pristine beaches - each terrain type brings a different outdoor experience. I particularly love the red soil here, which glows with a unique red light under the sun, complemented by lush tropical plants, creating a unique natural painting.
Conclusion and Outlook
Looking back on these years of outdoor adventures, I deeply feel that outdoor activities bring not just physical exercise but an attitude towards life. It teaches us how to stay optimistic in difficult situations, how not to give up easily when faced with challenges, and how to appreciate every beautiful moment in life.
Each outdoor adventure is a process of self-discovery and breakthrough. It allows us to temporarily leave the city's noise and return to nature's embrace. In our interaction with nature, we've learned reverence, perseverance, and gratitude. These experiences and insights have become the most precious wealth in my life.
What's your most desired outdoor destination? Is it the majestic Himalayas or the mysterious African continent? The peaceful Swiss lakes or the passionate Zambezi River? Whatever your dream is, taking the first step means you've already begun your own wonderful adventure.
Look forward to sharing more experiences and insights about outdoor equipment selection in the next issue. Remember to follow me, and let's explore this wonderful world together!
