A Cruising Tour of Komodo Island

BY  Sibashree May 13, 2025

Off-road adventures are fun and games until you hit a snag and have to find a way out. The best way to avoid that is to come prepared. While we cannot predict what might happen to you on the trail, we can help you prepare. This article will look at some things you must do and carry to make your off-road adventures safe and fun. Therefore, follow along to learn all you need to know about the right cheatsheet to follow while you are going on the trail.  How To Minimize Wearing & Tearing During Off-Road Adventure Going on an off-road adventure sounds great. However, fun can easily become punishment if you are not careful enough. This section is mostly about that. Here, we will look at some of the key points you must remember if you want to have fun and be safe at the same time.  However, trouble does not come with a script. Anything can happen at any point in time. Therefore, one key thing you must do is stay mentally prepared. That is the only thing that will be useful when you are on the trail with your car or bike.  Here we go! 1. Start with the Right Vehicle and Gear The foremost thing about maintaining your vehicle during off-road adventures is to choose the right one. You cannot drive a Lamborghini or a Harley while navigating treacherous terrain. Choose a vehicle that is suited for a muddy trail. For bikes, a scrambler or an ADV is the perfect choice. Meanwhile, for cars, go for a 4x4 with great ground clearance. These are best suited for the mud and grime of the trail, compared to other variants.  2. Inspect Before You Go Before setting out, take time to inspect key parts of your vehicle. Check fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid), inspect belts and hoses for signs of wear, and make sure your battery is properly secured. Pay close attention to the tires, brakes, and suspension—these components bear the brunt of off-road punishment. Catching problems early can prevent serious damage and keep your trip running smoothly. 3. Drive with Caution and Control How you drive off-road can make a big difference in how much wear your vehicle suffers. Avoid aggressive acceleration or braking. Instead, maintain a steady pace and navigate over rocks, ruts, and water crossings. Use low-range gears when climbing or descending steep grades to maintain control and reduce strain on your drivetrain. Smooth, deliberate driving helps thoroughly clean your vehicle's damage. 4. Use High-Quality Parts and Accessories Invest in durable, high-performance parts from a trusted auto parts seller when replacing or upgrading components. Budget parts may seem appealing, but they often wear out faster and offer less protection. Upgrades like skid plates, heavy-duty shocks, and reinforced components can make a big difference in long-term reliability. Items You Need During Off-Road Adventures Being out in the wild is difficult, especially if the trail is remote and hosts limited thoroughfare. Therefore, if things go bad, it means that you can be stuck for hours. In worst-case scenarios, it can be days before you can be rescued. As a result, being prepared for the worst and carrying some tools can mean the difference between life and death. Therefore, follow along if you want to know more about some of the tools you must have if you love being out and about with your bike or car. Let’s go! First-Aid Kit This is a no-brainer, but we still listed it in our article. A study shows that most injuries received during off-road adventures could have been controlled if there had been a first aid kit. Some companies specialize in making kits suited for off-roading. Consider getting those kits, as they are purpose-built and come in a portable case that is easy to store in the car's trunk or the top box of your bike.  Flashlight A flashlight is another no-brainer. While you are out and about adventuring, you never know when you will need a flashlight. A flashlight is not just there to illuminate the way, but it can also save lives. A flashlight has sometimes saved adventurers by making them easier to spot from the sky. The best flashlights are the ones that can be worn on your head. These offer better flexibility and keep your hands free.  Extra Blankets If your car or bike breaks down and help is hours away, you need something to keep you warm. This is where trail blankets come in handy. Trail blankets are easy to carry and quite effective. They do not take up much space, and they are great insulators. Apart from blankets, you must also bring a sleeping bag. That will help you stay out at night if things go bad.  Food/Water/Fire The three golden rules of off-road adventures are constant food, water, and fire access. These are the most important things you need out on the trail. For food, consider carrying MREs. Meal-ready-to-eat is great as it packs nutrition in a small space.  For fire, consider carrying waxed wood shavings as they can burn upto an hour without any hassle. As for water, it is self-explanatory.  Sattelite Communicator While trailing, you must have devices that can help you connect with civilization. Think like this: the spokes of your motorcycle gave up, you are stranded, and you must establish communication. What do you do? This is why you must have some sort of communicator that can help you send out a signal that people can use to find you.  The Journey Must Commence With careful preparation and ongoing maintenance, you can reduce your vehicle's wear and tear and enjoy your off-road journeys for years. However, you must also prepare for the worst if push comes to shove. We have also listed some of the necessary components to avert any disasters.  Hopefully, we were able to list all the things and pointers you must ensure for a safe and happy trailing. Therefore, try not to discount anything we have listed here. Otherwise, you can end up being part of the stat.  Thank you and have a great day ahead.

BY  Ankita Mar 29, 2024

San Diego, often known as the Finest City in America, is a spirited coastal metropolis. It is quite popular for its year-round sunshine, stunning beaches, and diverse array of activities. From sipping cocktails with ocean views to mastering kickflips at renowned skate parks, this city offers something for everyone.  This article is all about enjoying San Diego to its fullest. Whether you're a local looking to explore your backyard or a visitor seeking adventure, here are some must-try activities in this strategic destination. Beach Hopping:  Beach hopping is a must-do activity in San Diego, which has more than 70 miles of pristine coastline. Each beach has its charm and activities, from the popular shoreline of La Jolla and Mission Beach to the hidden jewels of Windansea and Sunset Cliffs.  There are other beaches, too, like Del Mar, Imperial Beach, and Mission Beach, which are worth visiting. Whether you're into sunbathing, surfing, or simply strolling along the shoreline, San Diego's beaches have something for everyone.  Mixology Classes:  For those looking to up their cocktail game, San Diego mixology classes provide an excellent opportunity to learn the skill of creating a perfect drink while socializing with other lovers. These classes allow participants to learn the art of mixology under the supervision of expert bartenders.  From mastering traditional cocktails to making innovative creations, these programs offer a unique experience for cocktail enthusiasts of all skill levels. Mixology is actually a better hobby to pursue because you can learn new skills along with enjoying your trip.  Farmers' Markets:  Embrace San Diego's farm-to-table culture by visiting one of its many farmers' markets. From the bustling Little Italy Mercato to the laid-back Ocean Beach Farmers Market, these markets offer a feast for the senses.  Sample freshly harvested fruits, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet treats while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and supporting local farmers and producers. Farmer’s market is not too popular, but one can easily consider it a hidden gem owing to the magic it follows.  Hiking Trails:  Hiking paths in San Diego County provide an opportunity to explore the county's different landscapes. From the steep terrain of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve to the panoramic panoramas of Cowles Mountain, there are routes for all skill levels.  The city has uneven terrains, rusty mountains, and chipped streets- all ideal for hiking. So, don’t let your trip go to waste. Lace up your hiking boots, bring lots of water, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds the city.  Skateboarding:  San Diego is considered the cradle of skateboarding culture, giving it a haven for skaters of all skill levels. Test your abilities at world-class skate parks such as Ocean Beach Skatepark and the historic Chicano Park Skatepark.  Whether you're a beginner who is taking skateboarding lessons or a seasoned pro perfecting your tricks, the city's skateboarding scene offers endless opportunities for adrenaline-fueled fun. Water Sports:  Take advantage of San Diego's coastal location by trying your hand at various water sports. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there are numerous activities available, including surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing. Rent equipment from local outfitters or sign up for lessons to improve your skills while enjoying the cool waters of the Pacific Ocean. Water sports in and around California are excellent adventures. And when it comes to an outstanding location like San Diego, there’s nothing you want to miss out on.  Gastronomic Adventures:  Indulge your taste buds in San Diego's thriving culinary scene, which boasts everything from gourmet dining to casual street food. Sample fresh seafood at waterfront eateries, feast on authentic Mexican cuisine in Barrio Logan, or embark on a culinary tour of the city's diverse neighborhoods. With its fusion of flavors and international influences, San Diego is a paradise for food lovers. Sunset Cruises:  Finish your day on a high note by taking a sunset sail in San Diego Bay. Relax aboard a yacht or sailboat while admiring the stunning views of the city skyline, Coronado Bridge, and neighboring sites.  Sip champagne, eat hors d'oeuvres, and soak up the golden hues of the setting sun for an amazing experience. Take your spouse along with you as you embark on a beautiful journey filled with romantic experiences.  Live Entertainment:  Immerse yourself in San Diego's vibrant nightlife by checking out its live entertainment venues. From intimate jazz clubs and indie music venues to lively dance clubs and comedy clubs, there's no shortage of options for evening entertainment. Catch a live performance by local musicians, laugh out loud at a stand-up comedy show, or dance the night away to the beats of talented DJs. Golf Course: Visiting Torrey Pines  Last but not least, do not forget to visit the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course. This championship course is extended to large areas of land. If you are a sports enthusiast, visit this diverse terrain and take your friends and travel partners along with you.  Visit Museums The Museum of Contemporary Art in San Diego is something you shouldn’t miss. Lying in a flagship location, this museum building was actually designed by Irving Gill, a renowned architect. It was initially homemade for Ellen Browing Scripps, the famous philanthropist. However, it was changed into a museum as soon as 1941 kicked in. At present, MCASD consists of several art collections that must be visited when someone is in San Diego.  The Bottom Line San Diego has a wide range of activities to suit everyone's interests and preferences. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, this coastal paradise has something for everyone.  So, grab your sunscreen, sense of adventure, and appetite for exploration, and get ready to experience everything that San Diego has to offer—from cocktails to kickflips and everything in between. With that, here’s an end to this comprehensive guide. Make San Diego your next favorite destination, and trust us, you will not regret it. Thank you for reading till the end. I hope you like it.  Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) 4 Unique Ways Of Enjoying Your Holiday In San Diego San Diego Fishing Adventure: Private Charters For Every Angler

BY  Sibashree Oct 4, 2019

In Afrikaans, a kloof is a narrow mountain river valley or a canyon. And South Africa off-the-beaten-path adventures have followed a course parallel to the antics of European and American canyoneering enthusiasts. Kloofing is following a mountain river from its beginnings down through waterfalls, rapids, whirlpools, hiking, and climbing your way in between swims. It’s a bit like high diving, hiking, and being put through a spin cycle—all at once. If you are still confused, I am referring to Southern Africa and its off-the-beaten-path adventures. Do you want to know about more hidden gems in Southern Africa? Keep reading!  THESE Are the Best Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures Southern Africa, with its eclectic culture, has been attracting tourists to its iconic monuments and natural landscapes. Here are some off-the-beaten-path adventure spots you must add to your itinerary list. 1. Kloofing Near Cape Town  In the mountains behind Betty’s Bay, a short drive from Cape Town, are South Africa’s two best kloofing day trips. Choose between the regular route, where you’ll have to leap 20 feet off a waterfall into the pool below, or Suicide Gorge (heads up: this means a leap of 60 feet). To date, no one has been hurt seriously on a kloofing trip. However, if you’re subject to vertigo and aren’t at least halfway fit, then don’t do it. The company Day Trippers will provide guides, wetsuits, lunch, transport, and moral support.  2. Lesotho on Horseback  The mountain kingdom of Lesotho, in east-central South Africa, serves up stone villages atop remote hillsides. Villagers, called Basotho, live draped in blankets and robes, almost like ancient Greeks. Shepherd boys sit on the slopes, playing flutes. Vultures and eagles cruise overhead. In Lesotho, the horse remains the chariot of choice, and this is how you’ll want to get around as well. Semongkong Lodge, near Maletsunyane, southern Africa’s highest waterfall, offers horseback treks for several days. You’ll stay in timeless Basotho villages and ride some of the subcontinent’s steepest terrain. The Basotho ponies, schooled in a special “tripling” gait, are tough, sure-footed, and afraid of nothing. A tip: Book a trek that coincides with Semonkong’s horse races. They’re wild spectacles involving carefully nurtured thoroughbreds, child jockeys, and epic bouts of drinking.  3. Hike Chimanimani To Make The Most Of Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures  As South Africa fills with travelers, more and more are heading into Zimbabwe, and several areas have been developed for hiking, fishing, riding, and other types of tourism. But the mountainous Eastern Highlands, east of Chimanimani in southern Zim, are hardly developed at all, and that’s their appeal. Besides, this area, part of the Lebombo Mountain range that marks the border between Zimbabwe and Mozambique, provides year-round cool relief from the heat of the plains below.  For the serious hiker, a stiff climb-in is rewarded by an upland paradise of high pastures, waterfalls, forests of flowering protea trees, and caves large enough to sleep in. Because the water up here is pure and drinkable, you can live here for days if you bring enough food with you. The only downside: Don’t cross over to the Mozambique side of the mountains, as old land mines from that country’s now-defunct civil war are still scattered on the range’s eastern slopes. Stick closely to the maps (available in Chimanimani village).  4. Learn Polo-Cross  Hugely popular in Zimbabwe and a growing equestrian sport around the world, polo-cross means falls, body crunches, and glancing blows with the lacrosse stick. But those with a go-smack-em attitude and sufficient riding experience can learn this fast and highly skilled equestrian sport on trained horses at Mopani Lodge, near Kwekwe in the Midlands area.  Relax between sessions by riding out on the ranch (which has a cross-country course if you still need an adrenaline fix) or just by sunning at the pool. And because of the favorable exchange rate, what would be an extremely expensive riding holiday anywhere else in the world has become one of adventure tourism’s best bargains.  5. Hunt with Bushmen  If you’re after Southern Africa off-the-beaten-path adventures, you can’t do any better than traveling with the Ju’Hoansi. Ju’Hoansi is the last Kalahari Bushmen clan to pursue the traditional hunting and gathering lifestyle. They’ve decided to open to small-scale tourism in their remote Namibian locale. You’ll camp near the Ju’Hoansi village of Makuri, go hunting with the men, and gather with the women. This is no theme-park experience: If the hunters stick an animal with an arrow, you may have to track it for up to two days and then carry out your share of the meat. If you love hunting, you can take the best hunting bow with you. You must also carry your own water and food. Don’t just spend a couple of days here: Allow at least a week for the people to become comfortable with you. If you’re lucky, they may also invite you to attend a trance dance, at which miraculous healings often take place.  6. Dune Boarding  The seaside town of Swakopmund, where the Namib desert falls into the sea, has become southern Africa’s dune-boarding capital. You’re driven out to the foot of a mountain-sized sand dune, given a large oblong sheet of hardboard, some furniture polish, a pair of heavy industrial gloves, and some welding goggles, and the next minute you’re flying almost vertically downward. It feels suicidal; even on the easiest descents, the board can pick up speeds of 60 or 70 km (about 43.5 mi)/hr. Steeper ones are much faster. Then you graduate to jumps, finally ending the day with the “Knucklegrinder,” an 800-foot whoosh down to a hard gravel plain.  7. Ride the Namib  It’s easily one of the most spectacular rides in the world: You’re galloping through the Namib Desert, the world’s oldest, surrounded by 2,000-foot-high, blood-red sand dunes. Thousand-year-old plants that resemble exploded cabbages grow on gravel plains that see rain once in a century. Lonely canyons echo the barking shout of baboons and the nighttime cough of leopards. Then, suddenly, green oases spring up, overgrown with camelthorn and tamarisk trees, where herds of desert antelope gather in the shade. Continue to sun-blasted mountain ranges where ice-cold springs bubble straight from the rock.  Trot through this barren wilderness with Reit Safari, which offers 10-day rides on Namibian Hanoverians (German horses) and rehabilitated mustangs, starting on the mountains west of Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, and ending in the ocean of the aptly named Skeleton Coast.  8. Earthwatch Cheetah Project  The lion really can lie down with the lamb—or at least the cheetah can. So, the biologists of this Earthwatch cheetah conservation project believe, anyway. Your job: to assist in live-capturing and radio-tracking cheetahs and other big cats on the wilderness ranches of central Namibia—the last place on earth where cheetahs still exist in reasonable numbers. Local ranchers used to shoot them on sight. However, now many are cooperating with the study, which seeks to prove that cats only rarely hunt livestock if their natural prey is readily available. You, the paying volunteer, have the satisfaction of contributing directly to the conservation of these cats while at the same time experiencing the adventure of chasing after and handling them.  9. Bike the Botswana Pans  Why would anyone want to bike through the Makgadigadi Pans—two vast, shallow expanses of mud? In the scorching Botswana summer, they fill with rain, releasing millions of tiny brine shrimp, which in turn attract breeding flocks of pink flamingos.  In the dry winter, they bake to a hard white crust. A perfect surface across which to go roaring on a quad bike. So wide are the pans that when out in the middle of them, you can’t see the “shore.” And the stars in this part of the Kalahari are unrivaled.  From Jack’s Camp, a luxurious place at the edge of the pans. You take quad bikes out to a table set out in the middle of the emptiness to find dinner laid and ready. By day, you go walking, look at the game, and pick wild foods with a Bushman guide called Cobra.   If you go during the sweltering summer months, you can’t quad bike the pans (too glutinous). However, you do see the flamingos. Further, if you’re lucky, you might see the eastern Kalahari’s summer zebra migration.  10. Deep Kalahari  If you have at least two weeks to explore Southern Africa off-the-beaten-path adventures, hire a 4×4 and blast off into southern Africa’s most remote country. The bigger-than-Switzerland Central Kalahari Game Reserve and the Aha and Tsodilo Hills. This is rugged driving on some of the toughest tracks in Africa; you must know what you’re doing in a 4×4. You must carry all the fuel and supplies. And if you get stuck, well, suffice to say it’s best to go in a convoy of two vehicles. Highlights of this once-in-a-lifetime trip include the desert lions of Deception Pan.  The Bushmen communities at Molapo and Xai-Xai (where you can go out with the hunters). The stalactite-filled caves of Drotsky’s Caverns and the ancient rock paintings of the Tsodilos. When you emerge at Shakawe at the northern edge of the Okavango Delta, you’ll forget what civilization looks like.  Final Words on Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures  With dense vegetation, rugged cliffs, and fascinating wildlife, the Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path adventures promise an unforgettable experience. These trips are also about learning about various fascinating cultures and respecting nature.  So, if you plan to visit Southern Africa soon, you can visit any of the places I have discussed here. Don’t forget to share your experience once you come back! Happy journey!