Adventure Travel Definition
Adventure Travel is…
ad·ven·ture trav·el [ədˈven(t)SHər trav(ə)l] (noun):
“…the kind of travel that makes you feel alive, makes you feel human, and/or pushes you out of your comfort zone. It is a unique sensation between feeling at peace with the world around you yet simultaneously feeling like your heart is going to burst out of your chest” (The Bucket List Mermaid)
“…a type of tourism involving travel to remote or exotic locations in order to take part in physically challenging outdoor activities” (Google)
“…a sustainable form of tourism that supports conservation of nature and historical resources while investing in local, community-driven economic development” (Adventure Travel Trade Association)
“…a type of tourism, involving exploration or travel with a certain degree of risk (real or perceived), and which may require special skills and physical exertion” (Wikipedia)
“…characterized by its ability to provide the tourist with relatively high levels of sensory stimulation, usually achieved by including physically challenging experiential components with the tourist experience” (Muller and Cleaver)
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But Why?!
What Makes Adventure Travel Unique?
After countless hours of research and even MORE countless hours diving into adventure travel, I would say that there are certain attributes that distinguish adventure travel from general or leisure travel.
It Gets the Heart Pumping!
This is the staple of adventure! Of course, this means different things for different travelers, but adventure travel is all about getting out of your comfort zone and growing as a person.
more Emphasis on Culture, History, and Sustainability
Adventure travel goes beyond general travel. It has a strong focus on cultural experiences, history, and loving
this planet!
It’s More than a vacation
I would argue that adventure travel isn’t a vacation…it’s travel. And this type of travel fuels the soul. It really is its own form of therapy.
Benefits of Adventure Travel
Need more convincing to embrace your inner adventurers?
Increase Physical Health
It is no secret that many adventure travel activities involve some form of physical activity. Training and the eventual accomplishment of these adventures provide amazing opportunities for your physical health. I trained for months to climb the Andes in Peru and was proud of myself after I hiked 7 days, 51 miles, and over 17,000 feet!
Opportunities for Education
With adventure travel, there are more opportunities to learn about your location. Whether it be about nature, wildlife, or culture, you are guaranteed to broaden your horizons!
Boost Mental Health and Self Confidence
It may be the physical activity, the accomplishments, your heart physically racing, or simply getting out in nature. Adventure travel boosts mood, reduces stress, and increases your confidence and independence. I was a completely different person after I backpacked by myself around the world.
Meaningful Travel
I am not saying that sipping a piña colada on a beach isn’t meaningful. But adventure travel involves once-in-a-lifetime activities that you will remember forever and provide gratitude for being alive on this beautiful planet.
Cultural Awareness
Adventure travel puts a heavy focus on cultural activities, education, and respect. I have met the most genuine people while traveling and they all have the most amazing stories to tell. One of the most incredible ways that you can grow as a person and as a traveler is getting to know the inspiring cultures around the globe.
Epic Travel Stories
I don’t want to be dramatic, but none of my hilarious travel stories have come from playing it safe while traveling. These are the stories that you will still be laughing or reminiscing about in years to come.
So Why The Bucket List Mermaid?
Since these travels often involve personal goals, growth, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, what better way to help you realize your full travel potential then with an adventure bucket list?
This is why I created this adventure travel blog. It is my goal to have you check off as many as adventures on your bucket list as possible. I even left medical school to do it!
And life is too short! I live to be FUN, genuine to myself, and put a smile on your face. Therefore, I do all of my adventures as a mermaid! 🧜🏻♀️
Ready to Dive into
Adventure Travel?
Bungee Jumping with AJ Hackett: My Honest Opinion
Skydiving on Your Bucket List: Everything You’ll Learn
African Safari: 9 Things to Know Before Going
A Bucket List Guide to Heli-Hiking Fox Glacier
Is Scuba Diving The Great Barrier Reef worth Your Bucket List?
