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Tag Archive: New Zealand

  1. Top 5 Destinations for a Winter Adventure in Summer

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    Everyone goes on about how great summer is going to be. Somehow the whole world transforms itself when the sun is shining. People are visibly happier and cities are filled with the buzz of positive energy. There is no denying that summer is great – but it isn’t for everyone.

    Some of us don’t like the constant heat of summer or the fact that every time you go outside you are instantly drenched with sweat. Some of us prefer being able to see our own breath on a crisp winter’s morning and to fill our lungs with a sharp intake of cold, fresh air.

    For people who wish it could be winter all year round, there are vacation destinations that will cater to your needs. If you are looking for a winter adventure this summer, look no further than these destinations.

    Patagonia

    This is the ultimate destination on every travel bucket list, whether you are looking for a winter adventure or not. Located right at the bottom of the world, in the very southernmost part of South America, Patagonia is a desolate region filled with glaciers, volcanoes and lakes. Some highlights of a trip to Patagonia include trekking across the top of the Perito Moreno glacier, hiking to the base of Mount Fitz Roy, and sailing through the Tierra del Fuego archipelago.

    New Zealand

    When things heat up in the northern hemisphere, they cool down in its southern counterpart. Huge swathes of New Zealand transform from hilly countryside just like you saw in the Lord of the Rings into frosty havens for snow sports enthusiasts. Head to Treble Cone in Wanaka for some top quality skiing during your summer vacation. There are plenty of runs on offer as well as opportunities for heli-skiing. After a day on the piste, come back down for some après ski in Wanaka’s finest bars and pubs.

    Dubai

    Ok, if you thought that I had lost my mind when I put this on the list I wouldn’t blame you. No-one in their right mind would ever think of Dubai as a winter destination. However, I do have my reasons for doing so. Dubai is home to the impressive indoor ski resort Ski Dubai. This indoor resort is the biggest of its kind in the world, measuring a staggering 22,500 square meters.

    There is so much to do here on top of skiing and snowboarding, such as sledging and playing in the giant snowballs, that you can easily spend a few days here. And, best of all, if it gets too cold in there, you can pop outside for a minute to warm up.

    Norway

    Home of the Northern Lights and some of the most northern towns in the world, Norway is a magical destination for a winter adventure. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, head up to Tromso, which is located in the Arctic Circle. If you travel to Tromso in the summer you will be treated to the phenomenon that is the midnight sun. This is when the sun never sets for around 2 months of the year.

    Canada

    Not all of Canada will be ripe for winter adventures in the summer, but if you are willing to travel North, you will find the icy climates you so desire. One place in particular stands out as being great for winter travels in summer: Churchill. Located in the frosty regions of Manitoba, Churchill is a harsh destination that is only for the brave. However, if you can handle it, you will be treated to husky dog rides and polar bear safaris. Not a bad trade-off, eh?

  2. Where Can You Ski in Summer?

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    It’s tough being a winter person. When the sun comes out the whole world rejoices. People take their usual indoor activities and shift them outside and suddenly the parks are full of people talking, eating, drinking and generally enjoying themselves. But, not all of us like sitting in the stifling heat for hours on end, sweating and trying not to burn. For some of us the crisp chill of a winter morning as we look out on blankets of snow is the ultimate pleasure.

    If you’re a winter person and you want to escape the heat this summer, why not hit the slopes? Skiing keeps you outdoors and active but still gives you that frosty feeling you’ve been craving. Here are some of the top summer ski destinations in the world.

    Argentina

    In the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are backwards. That means instead of blistering sunshine in July and August, the South of Argentina is covered in snow. One of the most popular ski destinations in Argentina is the town of Bariloche, located in the country’s Patagonia region. Despite its Latino heritage, the town has a distinct Alpine feel to it – so much so that you would be forgiven for forgetting you’re not actually in Switzerland. The slopes here are covered with world class powder so the skiing is top class.

    Chile

    Argentina’s next door neighbour and home to some impressive glaciers, Chile is another Southern Hemisphere ski hub. Chile has a huge number of different resorts to choose from, including Valle Nevado, which is roughly an hour and a half drive from Santiago, the capital – ideal for those who don’t have time to travel far. Other renowned Chilean ski resorts include Ski Portillo and Corralco, the latter of which has abundant off-piste and backcountry opportunities.

    New Zealand

    New Zealand has some of the best skiing in the world. In fact, it is so good that even Europeans and Canadians head over there sometimes when they want to take a break from the Alps and Rockies. Ski fields in New Zealand are not large but they are all about quality rather than quantity. Treble Cone and Cardrona are great spots with plenty of runs to try out. Elsewhere, more adventurous skiiers can ski down a live volcano in Ruapehu.

    Australia

    Australia might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think about skiing but believe it or not this gigantic island has some pretty decent resorts. To find any snow you will need to head South. In New South Wales is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest ski resort: Perisher. This field has runs for all abilities as well as night skiing and a weekly fireworks display to boot. In Victoria, just a few hours from Melbourne, is Mt. Buller, which comprises 25 runs and some spectacular views.

    Dubai

    No, I haven’t lost my mind, Dubai really is a great summer ski destination. Of course, you won’t be outside while you ski – no snow could survive the heat of the UAE. But, Dubai is home to the colossal indoor ski resort: Ski Dubai. Here you will be able to skiand ride on toboggans to your heart’s content and when you get a bit too cold, all you need to do is go outside and you will be in the sun again. This is perfect for those who want the best of both worlds.