How to Pack Even More Thrills Into Your Travels

Vacation is a time to unwind, sure, but unwinding does not always mean sitting on a beach sipping mai tais, right? Sometimes, the best way to unwind and blow the cobwebs away is to get active and find those exhilarating thrills where you can. Here’s how to do just that on your next trip.

Catch Some Waves – Even If You’ve Never Seen a Surfboard

Surfing is undoubtedly one of the most thrilling experiences you can have anywhere but it is particularly easy to access surfing lessons when you are on a beach vacation, so it is the perfect place to start if you want to add some excitement to your next trip.

As well as looking very cool when you are dressed like a surfer, hitting the water and catching those waves is even more enjoyable to do than it is to watch, and you really don’t have to be a pro, or even manage to stand up to get something from it. Even just paddling out and flopping around in the surf is a joy that will blow the cobwebs away and make you feel truly alive. Look for a place that offers lessons for absolute beginners, and give it a go!

Take the Scenic Route… in an Offbeat Way

Anyone can take a taxi to a landmark, but where’s the thrill in that? Instead, try something that gets you out in the open air, whether that’s renting a bike, hopping on a zipline, or strapping into a dune buggy.

Picture yourself tearing across a desert landscape at top speed, or zipping above treetops like you’re auditioning for the next action movie – who needs a tame tour bus when you can experience a place with the wind in your hair?

Or, if you’re in a city, why not try a Vespa tour or a sidecar? It’s the ultimate blend of thrill and sightseeing, plus, you’ll feel just a bit like you’re starring in a European spy film.

Go for Heights (Without Totally Freaking Yourself Out)

Not everyone’s into bungee jumping or skydiving (fair enough, right?), but that doesn’t mean you have to keep your feet on the ground. You can get your height fix in a less terrifying way with activities like hot air balloon rides, where the view is magical, and the pace is… well, safe. Or, try parasailing, which feels like flying without the commitment of jumping out of anything. The views from up high add a whole new level of excitement without pushing you too far out of your comfort zone. Plus, you’ll get the bragging rights without the sweaty palms.

Explore Hidden Waters – Underwater Adventures Await

If you’re by the coast, swap your beach towel for some fins and snorkel gear. Swim with colorful fish, get face-to-face with sea turtles, and explore coral reefs like you’re a modern-day Jacques Cousteau. If you’re feeling really adventurous, look into an intro to scuba diving class (no certification required). There’s nothing like the thrill of discovering an underwater world that’s so alien, yet so close by.

Bottom line? This year, don’t just visit new places – feel them. Dive in, climb high, ride the waves, and find your own way to make each destination unforgettable. If all else fails, remember this: the best adventures usually start with “Why not?”