addictedtotravel.com: Latest Inspiring Activities.

Istanbul Full Day Sightseeing Tour

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:46:31 GMT

This full day tour of Istanbul starts with a visit to the Byzantine Hippodrome. This was once the site of a Roman Imperial Palace and later of horse-drawn chariot races. Here is located the famous obelisk from Egypt, a remarkable pink granite monument built 3,500 years ago by an Egyptian pharo and brought to Byzantium in the 4th century.

Afterwards you will visit one of the most famous monuments in both the Turkish and Islamic worlds, the Blue Mosque. One of the truly superb creations in the classical Turkish architectural style, it stands unique with six towering minarets and 260 windows that illuminate its vast main chamber decorated with more than 20,000 beautiful Iznik tiles. The Aya Sofya was built in the 6th century by the Emperor Justinian, it was one of the largest basilicas in the Christian world. After the Ottoman conquest, it was converted into a mosque and is today one of the most magnificent museums in the world.

Lying next to the Aya Sofya you will now visit another unique Justinian structure, the awesome Underground Cistern, still collecting and storing water as it has since the 6th century.

Your tour will also include a visit to the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, formerly Ibrahim Pasa Palace, it is a fine example of 16th century architecture. Lastly, the Grand Bazaar is always an enjoyable, equally antique, yet very much a live part of Istanbul and a truly worthwhile experience. It is the oldest and largest of its kind in the world, with sixty lanes and more than 3,000 shops, it is not too inaccurate to say that you will find almost everything here.

Classical Day Tour to Ephesus

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:28:13 GMT

This full day tour to Ephesus visits one of the most important ancient sites not only of Anatolia, but the world; a city with thousands of years of history. In its day it was the most important ancient sea port connecting the traditional Silk Road trade routes to the Aegean Sea.

During your tour you will also visit Ephesus Museum, one of the most important museums in Turkey which exhibits pieces found in and around Ephesus; St. John's Basilica, built in the 6th century by the Emperor Justinianus in the place where Saint John, the apostle who wrote the Bible in Ephesus, was buried; Virgin Mary's House, the Virgin Mary came to Ephesus after the crucifixion of Christ and spent her final years there; and Isa Bey Mosque which was built in 1375 by the rulers of the western Anatolian principality of Seljuks. It shows the most elegant architectural features of late Seljuk civilization.

Landmannalaugar and Saga Valley

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 15:13:58 GMT

Thjórsárdalur Valley, a place of stunningly colourful and diverse landscape, is one of Iceland’s most popular destinations. Mt. Hekla, Iceland's best known volcano is clearly visible in the Thjórsárdalur valley.

Nearby Landmannalaugar is a natural gem, hidden in the highlands of Iceland it offers some of the most surprising and memorable experiences. Take a hike in the most breathtaking scenery in Iceland and afterwards take a bath in the lukewarm hot spring stream.

One of the best characteristics of this area, are the Rhyolite Mountains, with their multi-colored shapes and sizes. Some walking is required on this excursion.

The Wonders of Snæfellsjökull Glacier

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 17:48:18 GMT

The Snæfellsjökull glacier (1446m) is renowned for its mystical powers and has captured the imagination of people all over the world, ever since Jules Verne wrote “The Journey to the Centre of the Earth”. A short walk will be made from the huge stone structure called Bárður Snæfellsás, who was a shaman/viking who sensed the energy of the glacier.

We continue to the beautiful beach at Djúpalónssandur, where we take a short walk. On the way we pass Gatklettur, an interestingly shaped cliff.

Some walking is required on this excursion.

Thorsmork Excursion

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 17:30:27 GMT

Thorsmork is a beautiful nature reserve situated between three glaciers, Mýrdalsjökull, Eyjafjallajökull and Tindfjallajökull. To get there you must pass rough mountain tracks and cross un-bridged glacial rivers.

In Thorsmörk you can choose among a variety of hiking routes with breathtaking views and a unique nature experience.The newest addition is Thorslaug hot pool so remember to bring your swimwear! Lunch and refreshments are not included but light refreshments are available in the restaurant lounge in Husadalur.

Thorsmork is truly a magical place to visit and a “must” during your stay in Iceland!

Iceland Saga Circle

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 17:19:23 GMT

The Icelandic Sagas are renowned throughout the world. This Saga tour takes you to the settings of the most famous events in Icelandic history where we follow in the footsteps of the Viking warrior and poet Egill Skallagrimsson and others in Borgarfjordur.

We visit the Icelandic Settlement Centre exhibition in Borgarnes. From there we head to Reykholt, the home of Snorri Sturluson the most significant Nordic poet and historian of the Middle Ages, and Snorrastofa.

Our next stop is Hraunfossar waterfalls and the largest hot spring in the Northern Hemisphere, Deildartunguhver.

Iceland South Shore Adventure

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 17:10:37 GMT

Iceland’s South Shore is a lowland region of lush farmland, striking waterfalls, sandy black coastline, glaciers and charming towns and villages.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers of all kinds. An opportunity to stand behind the plummeting Seljalandsfoss waterfall, walk up to the Skógafoss waterfall and gaze at Reynisdrangar rock formations.

We will stop at the village Vík, which is surrounded by beautiful and impressive high bird cliffs and unique black sand shores.

Gullfoss Geysir Direct

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 17:03:48 GMT

Gullfoss Geysir Direct takes you to see the world-famous Geysir geothermal field and Gullfoss, the queen of Icelandic waterfalls.

The Geysir geothermal field has spouting springs of various formations, bubbling hot water and exploding geysers while at Gullfoss you are given the opportunity to stand next to the amazing waterfall, watching its enormous quantities of water tumble violently into a deep, meandering gorge.

In one afternoon you spend your time encountering a cross-section of Iceland's natural wonders and geolocial phenomena.

The Golden Circle

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 16:48:57 GMT

You can walk around the world-famous Geysir area, a geothermal field where hot springs are in abundance, geysers explode and pools of mud bubble.

One of many highlights of the tour is the Gullfoss waterfall, the queen of Iceland's waterfalls. Finally, but no less spectacular is a visit to the Thingvellir National Park.

This is the original site of the oldest existing parliament in the world. The Great Atlantic rift is clearly visible, a rift that is slowly pulling Iceland apart along tectonic plates.

Reykjavik Grand Excursion

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 16:39:19 GMT

The Reykjavik Grand Excursion is a detailed and comprehensive introduction to Reykjavik's past and present. During this tour Reykjavik’s main attractions are highlighted on foot and by bus.

The main landmarks, such as The Pearl, Hallgrímskirkja church, the National Museum of Iceland, the harbour and the famous 101 Reykjavik neighbourhood are visited.

Reykjavik's unique proximity to nature, with salmon river Elliðaá running through it, a thermal beach at Nauthólsvík, green valleys and outdoor swimming pools, makes this city second to none in the world.

Hanoi Old Quarter Explorer

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 16:46:20 GMT

Explore the rambling back alleys of Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, learn about local street food, visit outdoor markets and sample Vietnam’s beer in a local ‘bia hoi’. Our local guide will help you to navigate this exotic maze and give you an authentic experience of the heart of Hanoi.

Then proceed to drive through the suburbs of Hanoi, passing through bustling streets and markets, slowing entering the countryside and lush green rice paddies. Arrive at a popular local’s fishing spot where we will attempt our luck to catch some fish! Use a traditional style bamboo fishing rod with a supply of local beer on the side to stay motivated.

Snowmobiling Day in Iceland

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 14:52:28 GMT

Full-day snowmobile trip in Iceland.

For the first time ever in Iceland we offer a full-day snowmobile tour, oh yeah no one hour trips here…only full day, full on snow mobile action in the Icelandic highlands.

We will pick you up from your accommodation with our super-sized snow mobile trailer and drive to the best place at the time of the trip. Since this is a winter trip (and the Icelandic winter weather is not to be messed with) we will customise each trip according to the conditions - that is to say we will take you where the snow is the deepest, the sun shines the brightest (or at least where winter storms are less-powerful!) and the views are the greatest.

When conditions are favourable we will try to blaze between the mountains and reach the Langjökull glacier. In any case a full day snow mobile expedition in the Icelandic highlands in winter is guaranteed to be the adventure of a lifetime!

A valid driving licence ius required for the snowmobile drivers.

U-Drive Golden Circle Winter Trip

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 14:36:16 GMT

Includes a self drive super jeep exploration, a visit to Geysir, the world famous hot springs, Gullfoss waterfall, Thingvellir National Park and a lava cave adventure in the Blue Mountains.

We take a course east of Reykjavík in our specially modified Super-Defenders to the Blue Mountains where our first adventure starts, lava caving! Lava caving will reveal to you how Iceland was created and how it continues to be formed today. This is spectacular trip into an underground world, a visit to a natural phenomenon unique to Iceland.

After the caving our adventure continues as we make our way to the Gullfoss waterfall, on the way there we will go off-road and test the capabilities of the super-jeep*. Gullfoss waterfall is majestic place, the water crashes down 3 three steps, at total of 32 meters into the Hvítá river canyon. We will dine on traditional Icelandic meat soup at the Gullfoss Café before rolling onwards to the world-famous Geysir hot springs. Witnessing the super-heated water explode from the ground is something that no visitor to Iceland should miss.

On our way from Geysir to the Thingvellir National Park we will go off-road*. At the National Park Thingvellir, you can see the location where continental plates have been drifting apart for thousands of years, the only UNESCO‘s Cultural World-Heritage Site in Iceland.

This trip offers an amazing ride through the landscapes and natural forces that have shaped and continue to shape Iceland. The ultimate super-jeep combo trip from Reykjavik!

*Where, when and how much we will be able to go off-road depends entirely on snow conditions and the weather.

U-Drive South Shore Safari

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 14:25:03 GMT

An exciting self-drive super-jeep adventure with snowmobiling on the Mýrdalsjökull glacier!

Do not leave Iceland without experiencing a real glacier! Take a ride to the top of the world at Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Drive a snowmobile for a full hour through the white wasteland surrounded by magnificent views of glacier ice and extraordinary nature...but that is only half the story!

We will pick you up in a monster big super jeep and show you how best to drive this highly specialised mountain and glacier vehicle on and off the road…just imagine driving such a machine!

Cruising along Iceland’s south coast we will make stops at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and take a short walk behind the 60-meter high wall of water.

Continuing onwards we will drive up to the glacier base camp where we will gear up for our glacier exploration. Being on top of a glacier is a thrilling experience, surrounded with ice and white snow as far as the eye can see and the most magnificent scenery.

After the trip we will eat a packed lunch at the base camp before driving down to and onto the beautiful black sand beaches, racing along the waters edge where the relentless North Atlantic waves crash on to Iceland.

Winter Grand Slam Combo

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:55:54 GMT

This trip includes a visit to Geysir, the world famous hot springs, Gullfoss waterfall, lava caving in Thingvellir and a visit to the national park.

The trip starts with a walk down into the underground world of the lava field in the Blue Mountain range and where you will see for yourselves how Iceland was created. This is an amazing hike through an ancient underground lava tube, a remarkable experience.

From there we drive onwards to Gullfoss waterfall, the undisputed queen of Icelandic waterfalls. Gullfoss is an amazing sight, the water rushes down three steps of lava layers with breathtaking power and grandeur. Afterwards we feast on a traditional Icelandic meat soup at the Gullfosss Café, before driving to the geothermal area of Geysir, the home of the one and only Geysir. There the ground gurgles, bubbles and super heated water escapes from the ground with enormous force, a sight no soon forgotten.

Our last stop will be the famous Thingvellir National Park. The Thingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the original birthplace of the oldest existing parliament in the world. In addition it is the place where the great tectonic plates of America and Europe meet and the rift valley is clearly visible. From the national park we have a short drive back to Reykjavík.

This trip has it all; stunning natural beauty, interesting history, amazing geological wonders and a great caving adventure!

Over and Under Mt. Hellisheiði

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:31:42 GMT

Discover above and below ground on Mt. Hellisheiði.

Our 700 cc Yamaha Grizzly Quad bikes are waiting for us as we set off for a full throttle ATV bike trip through the mountains.

Racing through lava fields this is a truly exciting adventure and a great way to explore the hills and mountains on the outskirts of Reykjavik. Half way through our trip we will stop at the Leiðarendi lava cave to explore.

Walking down into a lava cave and discovering the marvels that volcanic activity has created in the past is a trip that everyone can undertake. The Leiðarendi cave is a perfect example of an Icelandic lava tube and is situated in one of the most active volcano areas in the world. We will climb, crawl and walk on our travel beneath the surface.

A superb trip mixing two amazing experiences!

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:35:28 GMT

Your pick up will arrive at your hotel in the shape of an enormous super-jeep and with a expert guide at the wheel the search for the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) is on!

The trip is a mysterious adventure into the pitch-black Icelandic winter night. The Auroras can only be seen far away from the city lights and we will not have to travel far until the mountains and deep fjords provide the shadows we need.

On cloudless and clear winter evenings, with luck on our side, we may be able to spot this beautiful and elusive natural phenomenon. Vivid and bright the dancing northern lights in the Arctic skies are a sight not soon forgotten.

Please note that this tour is highly depended on weather conditions and we reserve the right to cancel if the circumstances are not in our favour.

Mýrdalsjökull Snowmobile Adventure

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:03:28 GMT

Do not leave Iceland without experiencing a real glacier! Take a ride to the top of the world at Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Drive a snowmobile for a full hour through the white wasteland surrounded by magnificent views of glacier ice and extraordinary nature.

Being on top of a glacier is a thrilling experience, surrounded with ice and white snow as far as the eye can see and the most magnificent scenery. Both geographical knowledge and expert guidance can be expected as a standard during this glacier tour.

All necessary equipment will be provided and is included. It is essential to present a valid driver's license in order to drive a snowmobile.

The Golden Circle and Glacier Ride

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:35:14 GMT

Visit Iceland's Golden Circle and explore a glacier! Includes a super jeep ride and a visit to Geysir, the world famous hot springs, Gullfoss waterfall, Thingvellir and a snow scooter adventure on Langjökull glacier.

The Golden Circle tour allows visitors to get in touch with some of Iceland’s most famous and exciting natural phenomena. Our first stop is at the Thingvellir 40 min due east of the city. Thingvellir is one of Iceland’s most historic sites as it was here that Iceland’s first parliament was founded in the year 930 AD. From Thingvellir we head along gravel tracks toward the world-renowned geothermal area around the Geysir hot spring, this is the one spouting hot spring that all such phenomenon on earth are named after. From there we continue on to Gullfoss (“the Golden waterfall”) where your proximity to its edge is so close you can feel the spray of the glacial water on your face.

Next we kick the action into higher gear to get even closer to Iceland’s nature and go for a snowmobiling tour on Langjökull, Iceland’s second largest glacier.

We reserve the right to alter the itinerary according to weather and road conditions.

Guagua Pichincha Volcano Hiking

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 11:51:51 GMT

The Guagua Pichincha Volcano standing at 4,874 meters is a spectacular place to hike. Easily accessible from the city of Quito it offers excellent views to both the coastal cloud forest and the Inter-Andean volcano valleys.

Explore this dramatic paramo (highland) ecosystem on the lookout for bird life and the opportunity to witness living geological history.

Toachi and Blanco Rivers

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 11:05:34 GMT

These rivers are born high in the Andean volcanoes and thunder their way westwards to the tropical rainforest of Ecuador’s coast. The Toachi flows within a spectacular gorge with high lush-green walls. As we exit the gorge the Toachi merges into the Blanco, where water flow increases to produce continuously exhilarating white-capped rapids.

The combinations of these two rivers provide the best tropical water rafting west of the Andes year-round!

Cotopaxi Volcano Biking Adventure

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:38:18 GMT

The Cotopaxi National Park is high altitude nature and wildlife refuge established around the highest active volcano in the world. It offers one of Ecuador’s best mountain biking experiences as it crosses through a unique paramo ecosystem under stunning volcano scenery.

A support vehicle, a naturalist guide and high quality mountain biking equipment are included in this incredible volcano experience.

Cuicocha Crater Lake Kayaking

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:17:38 GMT

The Imbabura province in northern Ecuador is known as the lake province and Cuicocha Crater Lake is likely the most spectacular of all! The lake is settled within steep crater walls and paddling here is dramatic, as well as a great birdlife viewing experience.

During our travel we will enjoy northern Ecuador’s beautiful scenery, cultures and even a stop to visit the Otavalo Indian Market.

Quito Scenic Tour

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 08:59:22 GMT

Discover Quito's rich heritage, surrounded by impressive hills and mountains the city is known for its rich architecture, churches, sculptures and carvings. Founded in 1534 the colonial centre is the largest in Latin America and was designated the first World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1972.

Whales & White Water

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 13:44:49 GMT

We start our adventure at sea with an unforgettable trip into the world of whales and sea birds. Conveniently located in Reykjavik’s old harbor, a 20-minute journey with our boats will bring you up close to whales in their natural habitat.

The various types of whales commonly sighted include minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and humpback whales. The majestic fin- and sei whales along with the killer whales (orcas) are occasional sighted. We will be accompanied by sea birds such as gannets, guillemots, cormorants, kittiwakes, arctic terns, and many more. The trip also takes us past several islands inhabited by colonies of puffin – a great photo opportunity!

During the sailing you will be served a light lunch before taking to shore and strolling up to the Cintamani store on Laugarvegur 11. From there you will be picked up and driven to Drumbó Basecamp on the banks of Hvítá River. There we gear up for a whitewater rafting trip on the River Hvítá.

The river has a perfectly balanced mix of serene canyons and adrenaline pumping waves and rapids. We raft for 7 kilometers and at one point participants get to jump from a cliff into the river. For those looking for extra action the option of white water canoeing is available.

Hot tubs and sauna after the rafting is included.