Discover Your Adventurous Escape: A Guide to First-Time Abroad Adventures

If you are eager to embark on your first journey outside your home country, you might be wondering where to start. For those who love active and adventurous travel opportunities but have not ventured beyond their borders, Scandinavian countries, especially Norway and Sweden, offer an ideal starting point.

Scandinavian Countries: Your First Adventure

If you are ready for a world of adventure, consider a trip to Scandinavia. These countries boast a diverse range of activities such as hiking, climbing, skiing, canoeing, skating, and Nordic walking. The natural beauty of Scandinavia is truly captivating, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the climate, with its versatile weather conditions, will keep your adventures varied and exciting.

Scandinavia is also known for its safety and welcoming nature. The people are friendly and helpful, making it a secure environment for travelers. To further enhance your experience, consider Couchsurfing to stay with locals and make new travel friends. Couchsurfing not only provides an affordable accommodation option but also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle.

Stay with Locals and Make Travel Friends

Alternative Options for Independent Travel

While Scandinavia may be an excellent choice for your first adventure, you don't have to limit yourself to this region. If you are looking for other options to independently explore adventure sports, consider the following countries:

USA

For those who prefer to join a guided tour, the USA offers several excellent companies specializing in small group adventure tours. One such company is Exodus, a British company with great tours in Ecuador. They also have active trips all over the world. However, Exodus tends to cater to a slightly older demographic, with an average age of around 30.

Exodus: Active Trips

Younger Travelers

For travelers in the younger demographic, Intrepid Travel is a fantastic choice. Established in Australia, this company caters to an average age group of 20-30 with a variety of adventure tours. My sister recently completed the Everest Base Camp with Intrepid and highly recommended them. If you prefer a less challenging route, the Annapurna circuit in Nepal offers an amazing scenic walking route with fewer physical demands.

Annapurna Tours: Discover the Annapurna Sanctuary

Other Adventure Destinations

For a mix of adventure and independent travel, consider New Zealand, Australia, Canada, UK, Ireland, Croatia, Thailand, and South Africa. These countries provide a range of adventure sports and landscapes that cater to different interests and skill levels.

Regardless of where you choose to explore, make sure to plan ahead and research thoroughly to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure. Whether you prefer a guided tour or independent travel, the key is to embrace the adventure and step outside your comfort zone. Prepare yourself for a lifetime of memories and unforgettable experiences.