Katelyn Michaud

Katelyn Michaudhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/about/contributors/katelyn-michaudKatelyn Michaudhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/southeast-asia/indonesia/trekking-in-sumatraSkip touristy Bali in favor of trekking through the jungle to spot endangered orangutans in the wild, tube through whitewater rapids, and exchange a smile with the friendly locals. 2018-04-03T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/southeast-asia/indonesia/trekking-in-sumatrahttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#bukit">Bukit Lawang</a></li> <li><a href="#trekking">Trekking for orangutans</a></li> <li><a href="#jungle">Jungle trekking and river rafting</a></li> <li><a href="#local">Local encounters and cultural experiences</a></li> </ul> <p>Skip touristy Bali in favor of trekking through the jungle to spot orangutans, tubing through whitewater rapids, and sharing a smile with the friendly locals.</p> <h2 id="bukit">Discover Bukit Lawang</h2> <p>In the heart of Gunung Leuser National Park, on the banks of the Bahorok River, Bukit Lawang is a small tourist village in North Sumatra. The area became a popular place to visit after an orangutan rehabilitation center was opened here in 1973. Soon after, in spite of the winding five-hour drive from the Sumatran capital, Medan, travelers started to come to the village to spot the semi-wild orangutans who live in the national park.</p> <p>Today, Bukit Lawang is a bustling tourist village with many hotels, restaurants, and handicraft shops. It’s also the base for many of the orangutan treks which leave daily, so it’s easy to book a tour.</p> <p>Tip: There are no ATMs in Bukit Lawang, so make sure to get money out in Medan.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/south-east-asia/bukit-lawang-village-istock.jpg" /> <figcaption>Bukit Lawang Village, Sumatra. Photo Credit: iStock.com/mazzzur</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="trekking">Trekking to spot orangutans</h2> <p>Treks to see Sumatran Orangutans are the main drawcard for travelers visiting Sumatra; once widespread in Indonesia, there are now less than 15,000 Sumatran Orangutans left in the wild.</p> <p>Classified as critically endangered, orangutans are on the edge of extinction due to rainforest deforestation from the palm oil plantations and an illegal black-market trade.</p> <p>Thanks to the work of the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme, the orangutans who call Gunung Leuser National Park home are protected.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/south-east-asia/ trekking-sumatra-istock.jpg" /> <figcaption>Trekking in Sumatra. Photo credit: iStock.com/Davor Lovincic</figcaption></figure> <p>Many tour companies in Bukit Lawang offer one-day or multi-day orangutan treks. When choosing a tour operator, look for an eco-friendly company that don't feed the orangutans and follows the “leave no trace” principles of trekking.</p> <p>Most of the orangutans you’ll see are semi-wild, but you may get lucky and spot a wild one. While many of the orangutans will beg for food, it's vital not to feed the animals.</p> <h2 id="jungle">Jungle trekking and river rafting</h2> <p>Orangutans aren't the only animals you’ll spot in the jungle of Gunung Leuser National Park. The national park is also home to Thomas’s leaf monkeys, macaques and gibbons. While extremely rare to spot, Sumatran tigers, Javan rhinoceros and Sumatran elephants, also live here.</p> <p>To truly explore the beauty of the rainforest, book a multi-day jungle trek; you’ll see a lot more orangutans, and have a better chance of spotting other wildlife, like monkeys, birds, lizards, and more, the further you trek into the lush green jungle alive with the songs of birds and insects.</p> <p>During multi-day <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/hiking-travel-insurance">jungle treks</a>, you’ll camp along the trails and the river in a tent. Your guides will provide you with homecooked food and water throughout the trek. Be prepared to eat lots of fresh tropical fruit!</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/south-east-asia/thomas-leaf-monkey.jpg" /> <figcaption>Thomas's Leaf Monkey in Sumatra. Photo credit: iStock.com/Rosie Young</figcaption></figure> <p>Most tour companies will camp along the Bahorok River in tents and gear provided by the tour company before returning back to Bukit Lawang by river tube (inflatable rings that float on the water).</p> <p>Your guides will tie large rubber tubes together and guide you through the <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/kayaking-or-rafting">small white-water rapids</a>. While it takes about six hours to reach your jungle camp on foot, it only takes about 20 minutes by river tube. </p> <h2 id="local">Local encounters and cultural experiences</h2> <p>Locals in Northern Sumatra, especially in Bukit Lawang, are very friendly. The village thrives on tourism and many locals speak good English. Sumatra is primarily a Muslim island, so it’s important to dress conservatively and respect local religious customs.</p> <p>Many tour companies in Bukit Lawang and elsewhere offer cultural tours to nearby villages to see how locals farm brown sugar, tofu, rice, and rubber. The village women will happily show you how they weave bamboo for their houses, and don’t miss the chance to visit the local markets for fresh produce, handicrafts, and more.  </p> <p></p>iStock.com/USO 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/central-america/unique-experiences-in-central-americaFrom cave tubing in Belize to finding Mayan ruins in Honduras, here are 8 ways to explore Central America beyond the tourist trail. 2017-10-24T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/central-america/unique-experiences-in-central-americahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Let’s be honest, it’s no wonder Central America is one of the most popular destinations for backpackers. With an abundance of adventurous activities, <a href="/explore/central-america/first-timers-guide-to-learning-spanish-in-central-america" target="_blank">diverse culture</a>, cheap beer, and easy transportation between countries, we can see so many reasons why travel has boomed here.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#belize"> Belize </a></li> <li><a href="#guatemala"> Guatemala </a></li> <li><a href="#el-salvador"> El Salvador </a></li> <li><a href="#honduras"> Honduras </a></li> <li><a href="#nicaragua"> Nicaragua </a></li> <li><a href="#costa-rica"> Costa Rica </a></li> <li><a href="#panama"> Panama </a></li> <li><a href="#spanish"> Learn Spanish </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="belize">Cave Tubing & Diving in Belize</h2> <p>There's more to Belize than just Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Spend a few days exploring the islands – especially the laid-back, backpacker-friendly island of Caye Caulker.</p> <p>Don’t miss the Great Blue Hole if you’re a scuba diver. The massive submarine sinkhole was made famous by famed explorer Jacques Cousteau in 1971. Since he named it one of the top ten scuba diving sites in the world, it’s been a popular dive site, where you’ll see colorful reef fish and Caribbean Reef Sharks.</p> <p>After working on your tan, head inland to the jungles. Go cave tubing with Butts Up Cave Tubing, in Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve. As you tube through the cave systems, you’ll soon see why the ancient Mayas regarded Caves Branch as a sacred underworld, home to many powerful gods.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/central-america/rio-frio-cave-belize-istock.jpg" /> <figcaption> Exploring Rio Frio cave, Belize. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="guatemala">Trekking to Score Unreal Views in Guatemala</h2> <p>Guatemala is a diverse country with so much to offer backpackers. The colonial city of Antigua often serves as the hub city for many backpackers traveling throughout Central America. For adventurous travelers, you don’t want to miss the two-day Acatenango Volcano trek. If you’re lucky, you <a href="/travel-safety/central-america/guatemala/shake-rattle-and-roll-in-guatemala" target="_blank">might even get to see fiery Fuego erupting</a>.   </p> <p>The three-day, 40 km hike from Xela to Lake Atitlan is a unique way to experience the remote highlands of Guatemala and meet the local villagers along your way. It's a challenging hike, but well worth it. Check out Quetzaltrekkers, which is a volunteer-run organization that donates profits from the hike to the local schools.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/central-america/sunrise-mountain-guatemala-lake-atitlan-istock.jpg" /> <figcaption> Travelers watching the sunrise over Lake Atitlan from La Nariz de Indio. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="el-salvador">Surf’s Up in El Salvador</h2> <p>Many <a href="/travel-safety/central-america/el-salvador/crime-in-el-salvador" target="_blank">backpackers skip El Salvador</a>, but this little country that uses the US Dollar, should not be missed. Nestled on the coastline of the warm Pacific Ocean, El Salvador is home to some of the best waves in Central America.</p> <p>El Tunco on the coast of El Salvador is a hot bed for surfers from all over the world. Many of El Salvador’s best surfers can be found in this tiny village. On the weekends, the village comes alive with <span>Salvadorans</span> who escape from the chaos of San Salvador for some fun in the sun. During high season, the nightclubs and bars will be hopping.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/central-america/el-tunco-beach-el-salvador-istock.jpg" /> <figcaption> Tunco beach, El Salvador. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="honduras">Find Ancient Mayan Ruins & Learn to Dive in Honduras</h2> <p>Honduras is the place to be if you want to learn to scuba dive or snorkel with whale sharks. Utila is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn how to dive. The tiny island is home to tons of dive shops, delicious restaurants, and good nightlife. Once you’re there, you’ll quickly see why some people just never leave Utila.</p> <p>For some history and culture, don’t miss Copan Archaeological Park on your way back through the mainland.   </p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/central-america/copan-national-park-honduras-istock.jpg" /> <figcaption> Who wouldn’t want to join this guy to see the Mayan ruins at Copan Archaeological Park? Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="nicaragua">Take a Ferry to Get Off the Beaten Path in Nicaragua</h2> <p>Nicaragua today is like Costa Rica twenty years ago. It offers similar activities, food, and culture, but at a much cheaper cost. From the beautiful colonial city of Granada and nearby Lake Nicaragua to surfing in San Juan del Sur and volcano boarding, <a href="/travel-safety/central-america/nicaragua/nicaragua-health-and-hazards-tips" target="_blank">Nicaragua</a> has much to offer backpackers.</p> <p>For an off-the-beaten-path experience, take the ferry to the Corn Islands off the Caribbean coast where you can relax, surf, and explore the islands at a leisurely pace.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/central-america/kayaking-lake-nicaragua-istock.jpg" /> <figcaption> Kayaking on Lake Nicaragua. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="costa-rica">Zip-lining & Eco-friendly Tours in Costa Rica</h2> <p><a href="/travel-safety/central-america/costa-rica/costa-rica-surf-safety-tips" target="_blank">Costa Rica</a> is the pioneer of zip-lining and adventure sports. With 90% of its animals and 50% of its plant species living in the upper parts of the rainforest, zip-lining through the jungle is the best way to get up close and personal with the native wildlife. Diamante Eco Adventure Park is home to one of the top 5 zip-lines in the world.</p> <p>Costa Rica is home to tons of biodiversity-rich National Parks, like Manuel Antonio National Park and Arenal Volcano National Park. Many backpackers often skip Arenal as it is expensive, but it’s worth the splurge. Jacamar Naturalist Tours is an eco-friendly company offers a range of adventure tours in Arenal, like canyoneering, white water rafting, and hiking.    </p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/central-america/la-fortuna-waterfall-costa-rica-istock.jpg" /> <figcaption><span>Rio Celeste Waterfall</span>, Costa Rica. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="panama">Get to Know the Local Tribes on the San Blas Islands, Panama</h2> <p><a href="/explore/central-america/panama/the-ulitmate-guide-to-exploring-panama-like-a-local" target="_blank">Panama is a diverse country with something for everyone</a>, from the dense jungles dotted with coffee plantations to Bocas del Toro where you can sleep over the ocean at night and dive or snorkel during the day.</p> <p>The San Blas islands offer stunning white sandy beaches and crystal clear blue waters. Stay on the islands with the local tribe called the Gunas, formerly known as Kuna and historically known as Cuna.</p> <p>Spend a few days in Panama City explore the mix of the old city, Casco Viejo, and the new modern city. Don’t forget to tour the Panama Canal, which changed the way the world did shipping in the 1900s.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/central-america/kuna-yalla-houses-panama-istock.jpg" /> <figcaption> Local village on the San Blas Islands, Panama. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="spanish">Learn Some Español!</h2> <p>It’s also a great place to practice your <span>Español</span>! Check out our tips on how to pick the right Spanish school for you, <a href="/explore/central-america/first-timers-guide-to-learning-spanish-in-central-america" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>iStock/cnicbc 0610580328 iStock Two backpackers walk along the coast of Little Corn Island, on the Carribean coast of Nicaragua

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/worldwide/experiences-to-book-in-advance-and-when-you-can-get-away-with-booking-last-minuteWhich experiences should you book in advance, and when will you get away with booking last minute? Don’t sweat the small stuff on your gap year, Nomad Katelyn knows how to plan ahead, and when to wait. 2018-11-21T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/worldwide/experiences-to-book-in-advance-and-when-you-can-get-away-with-booking-last-minutehttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#pros-and-cons"> Pros and cons of booking ahead vs cutting it tine </a></li> <li><a href="#high-season"> Booking for high season </a></li> <li><a href="#low-season"> Booking for low season </a></li> <li><a href="#real-life"> Real-life examples from a traveler </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="pros-and-cons">Pros and cons of booking ahead vs cutting it tine</h2> <p>No surprises here, but some of the most sought-after activities book out months in advance. <a href="/travel-safety/south-america/peru/hiking-the-inca-trail-machu-picchu-find-out-how-to-do-it-safely" target="_blank">The Inca Trail</a> – South America’s most iconic trek – only offers 500 permits a day to hike to the top of Machu Picchu. During the high season, these permits can sell out years in advance. The <a href="/travel-safety/south-america/ecuador/galapagos-islands-safety-guide" target="_blank">same goes for cruises to the Galapagos Islands</a> or <a href="/travel-safety/antarctica/planning-your-antarctica-trip" target="_blank">Antarctica</a>.</p> <p>That said, sometimes, if you wait until the last minute, you can score the deal of a lifetime. If you’re lucky, this could be an eight-day cruise to Antarctica for just 70% of the original price – that’s if you’re okay with waiting around in Ushuaia for a last-minute deal.</p> <p>Other times, especially in Central America and Southeast Asia, it’s usually best to wait until the last minute and shop around for the best prices.</p> <h2 id="high-season">Booking for high season</h2> <p>Every destination in the world has a high and low travel season. If you know you’ll be traveling during high season, you should consider booking your activities in advance – especially if it’s a popular activity like bungee jumping or the <a href="/explore/europe/france/6-things-to-know-before-going-to-france">Eiffel Tower</a>.</p> <p>Booking in advance is especially important if you have limited time in a destination. If this is a case, make a list of the top three activities you want to do. If the activity is something you know you’ll regret not doing once you leave, book it beforehand. If not, wait it out and see if you can book it once you’re there.</p> <h2 id="low-season">Booking for low season</h2> <p>Low season is one of the best times to travel if you’re looking to save a few dollars. However, low season might also mean bad weather. For example, low season in Southeast Asia means heavy rain. Due to the low demand and questionable weather, it’s best to wait until you get there to book.</p> <p>Always be sure to check your desired activity runs during low season. For example, in <a href="/explore/guides/myanmar-insiders-guide" target="_blank">Myanmar</a> the <a href="/explore/southeast-asia/myanmar/ballooning-over-bagan" target="_blank">hot air balloons over Bagan</a> only run between the months of October–March, and cost a whopping US $300.</p> <p>When it comes to booking bungee jumps in New Zealand, you’ll need to book ahead during the Summer months. During Winter, however, it’s better if you wait to see the weather forecast a few days prior, and then lock it in.</p> <p>You might also get better deals if you shop around, as tour operators are more eager for your business. Some activities, like a three-day, four-night <a href="/explore/south-america/bolivia/adventure-tourism" target="_blank">Bolivian Salt Flats tour</a>, will still book out.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/gap-year/trekking-nepal-mark-whitman-kandoo-adventures.jpg" /> <figcaption> Starting the trek to EBC. Photo credit: Mark Whitman, Kandoo Adventures </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="real-life">Real-life examples from a fraveler</h2> <p>I recently spent the past 18 months traveling through Central America, Europe, Oceania, and Southeast Asia. I’ve always been a planner and like planning activities beforehand, but due to the length of time aboard, much of my travel was flexible and spur-of-the-moment.</p> <p>There was a six-week period of travel up <a href="/explore/oceania/australia/australia-driving-the-east-coast">Australia’s east coast</a>, where I had to pre-book all my activities in advance because I was traveling on a strict timeline. I had a bucket list of things I wanted to do, which mostly revolved around scuba diving.</p> <p>Since I was traveling through Southeast Asia during the low season, I opted to book most of my activities a few days ahead so I could shop around for the best prices.</p> <p>Before you begin your gap year, make a list of the top ten activities that you know you want to do. Once you figure out your rough timeline, research if you’ll be there during the high or low season. If you’re there in the high season, consider booking ahead. If it’s the low season, wait until you get there or a week or two in advance.</p>iStock/xeni4ka 0471519877 iStock Machu Picchu, Peru - August 2, 2011: Group of tourists resting after a mountain hike to pre-Columbian 15th-century Inca site of Machu Picchu