Alternatives to Hiking the Inca Trail

Getting to the Machu Picchu ruins is a bit of a mission at the best of times (I think that was the idea when the Incas built it). Hiking to the ruins is a genuine challenge but increasingly the challenge is more to do with beating all the other tourists to book and then finding your own space on the crowded trail. This lost city has certainly been found, and by a staggering number of tourists.

On my trip to the ruins I never expected to have to join an orderly queue in order to reach the Sun Gate after four days of hiking in the wilderness. In fact, because of this bottleneck at the entrance to the ancient city, the best moments of the hike were far from the ruins themselves. The quiet moments when other hikers disappeared from view and you got a glimpse of snow capped mountain and could let your Indiana Jones imagination run free.

For these reasons travellers have been looking more and more for alternative hikes to the Inca trail. This is good for two reasons: One, there are some lesser known beautiful and challenging options out there, and two, since a whole lot of mud fell on the trail in January, the trail has been closed until March and possibly even April. So if you planned to hike the trail this year and have been beaten to it by the mudslides or you just like your space when hiking through the Andes, here are some Inca trail alternatives:

Choquequiro

This hike gets you to the mystical mountain fortress known as Choquequiro. Just a cool and Machu Picchu, Choquequiro is far less popular with tourists and offers a more remote experience. This is a seriously challenging hike, which does not have the same high altitudes as the trail. Unlike the trail, it is not compulsory to have a guide for this route, but unless you are very experienced this is still a good idea. You won't bump into many other hikers, but you may meet some of the local mountain folk.

Cordillera Huayhuash

The Cordillera Huayhuash circuit located north of Lima and is a huge 16 day trail with demanding hiking. This trek should be at the top of your list if you like a challenge and want to experience views of glaciers and snowy peaks rather than the back of someone else's' backpack. Trekkers pass through 12 distinct high passes and climb above 18,000 feet. The Huayhuash Circuit is for the experienced adventure types.

Salkantay trail

The Salkantay trail is 75km over five days, via Mount Salkantay, and reaches altitude of 4600 m. Higher and quieter than the Inca trail, this route will still bring you to Machu Picchu on the final day. Although day two is pretty tough, this trail is similar in difficulty to the trail. A good option for a quieter hike at any time, but will also be affected by the recent mudslide closure.

The main Inca trail is meant to reopen in April and bookings are being taken for May onwards. To find out about permit availability check out the Andean Travel Web online.

If you are super disappointed because the mudslides have ruined you plans to see the ruins, remember that they have also caused some deaths and ruined infrastructure and crops for the locals.

By Brook Mitchell. Editor and creator of http://aussietraveladvice.com the free and independent resource for Aussies going overseas. I love to write, travel, surf. Love life, my mates and family.

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Travel Agents - Why You Should Use Them

Every year millions of people book travel one way or another some book their trips online with one of the popular travel websites and some people still use a travel agent. Travel is a trillion dollar industry and there are so many options for the consumer these days. Not so long ago when you wanted to take a trip to see your family or go on a vacation you would call a travel agency. Today you can book your trip on sites like HotWire, Priceline, Expdeia, Travelocity and more these sites offer great discounts for people who want to book online. Most of the travel agents today have started to take advantage of the power of the internet they have their own personal websites when you can get information and then call them to ask you questions or get quote over the phone.

Just like everything else in the world the younger generation and the older generation differ in their opinion on which way is the the best way to book travel the older people would rather get the personal touch by dealing with a local travel agent. The your generation likes to have thing fast and with no personal touch they like that fact that they can go to the internet and surf many different sites and book a trip when they find what they are looking for. People travel for many different reasons some travel because they have to take care of business and some travel just for fun.

No matter what the reason is for your trip you will need to book it one way or another either online or with a professional travel agent. The main thing you must consider is which booking method would be less stressful to you and which method would offer you the most detailed information. If you have friends or family who travel a lot you should ask them how they booked their trips and what was the best booking method for them. People who travel everyday like to get the best deal on every single trip and they can be a good source for getting the best information on which way to book a trip.

Traveling should be fun and you not spend more money than you have to so always take your time when planning your trip. Be careful not to jump on the first deal that is presented to you when you take your time you will always find a better deal. Booking travel is not very hard at all you just need to know what you are looking for and what you are willing to spend and choose the best booking method that will make you happy.

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Traveling Wisely - Three Tips

Traveling can be quite the pain in the neck if you are not sure what you are doing. When you are done reading this article, hopefully the next time you travel, you will be a bit more savvy in the ways of travel and have a smoother experience over all.

Plan Ahead

The best and foremost thing is to plan ahead. Rushing yourself, whether it comes to packing in a hurry or leaving late to the airport, almost always leads to disastrous consequences. There's a high chance you will forget something if you pack too quickly or too late, and how will you afford to buy a new camera on vacation if you left yours at home?

If you leave late for the airport, you will be constantly stressed until you reach your gate in time. You have to drive to the airport, park your car, get your tickets and still go through security. And then if you are in a hurry, there is a very good chance that you may end up behind that person at the security checkpoint who holds up the line because he is a new flier and has pockets full of objects he continually keeps forgetting to take out. You could miss your flight because of this.

Pack Light

Pack light, especially if you are the kind of person that likes to bring vacation souvenirs home with them. Also, packing light makes it easier to get around such as places like the airport or a foreign hotel. Sure, there are bell boys and carts for your convenience, but you will pay for the help.

Prepare for Emergencies

Prepare yourself for emergencies. Emergencies can be very inconvenient anytime, but are especially so when you are on a vacation. For example, what if you left your wallet in the taxi and can't get it back? By carrying money in multiple places, such as in your luggage, your carryon, your purse/wallet, and even in your shoes, you can prevent yourself from ever being stuck with no money at all.

What if the airport lost your luggage? By carrying at least one change of clothing in your carry on and a few necessities, you could continue on your vacation for at least a day before they found your lost luggage and brought it to you.

By simply following these three simple ideas, you can easily prevent your dream vacation from turning into a nightmare.

Jay has been interested in health issues for many years now, although he is fairly new to article writing.

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3 Tips For Staying Fit and Healthy on the Road

It is hard to stay fit and healthy on the road as compared to home. Whether it's business travel, vacation, or extended overseas trips, we tend to not eat as healthily as home, not get much exercise, and not get much rest. Your routine no longer exists, and you may be eating every meal out. Here are three tips to help you out while traveling.

1) Do some exercise, any activity is great. For example, on business travel my hotel will usually have a exercise room or better. I try to go at least one time. I'll also try to walk, which is often easy when traveling. And if all else fails, I'll at least take the stairs every once in a while. This can be a great workout, especially if you're on the 20th floor.

2) Don't go hog wild eating at every meal! For example, if I know I'll be having a big dinner, I may have just a yogurt for breakfast or a salad for lunch. No, you will not as healthily as at home, but don't go crazy. I sometimes will keep some food in my room so I can have a snack without being tempted to order an entire meal.

3) Sleep! Too many people do not sleep enough while traveling. I know I don't sleep as well, e specially the first night, so I try to compensate by getting to bed slightly early at least once or twice, more if often.

Staying fit and healthy on the road takes some effort, but staying active, not eating horrifically, and getting enough rest is a great start.

Harry writes on many topics. Visit Clear Plastic Boxes and Plastic Shoe Boxes to see his latest.

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