The Adventure Company: Follow in the footsteps of James Bond!

Die-hard Bond fans can expect to see thrilling, stunt-filled action when the hotly awaited new 007 blockbuster ‘Quantum of Solace’ hits our cinemas this weekend. Those with a beady eye for travel, however, will also be able to spot Bond in a variety of locations that are much more exotic than Pinewood Studios.



The latest film has already hit the headlines for placing the suave spy in more destinations than any other film in Bond franchise history. After a huge amount of jet-setting and injury from doing many of his own stunts on the shoot, tough guy Daniel Craig, has also unwittingly provided thrill seekers with the ultimate travel guide to Latin America!



While some of the filming for the latest flick takes in some peachy spots in Italy and Austria much of the action takes place in spectacular locations in Mexico, Panama and Chile. Interestingly, this time around, the crew have picked areas in which the suited and booted Bond wouldn’t normally appear, with a selection of rugged, barren landscapes and deserts replacing the glitzy polished settings found in the most recent instalments.



Follow in the footsteps of 007 by taking a trip around the hottest locations:

Mexico
The ever-enticing, main gun battle of the film was shot here amongst the desert in Baja California before filming Bond piloting a vintage DC3 plane and parachuting out of the aircraft as he glides over the Sea of Cortes.




The crew also filmed for two weeks near the small town of San Felipe. These locations are so remote and untouched, a helicopter had to ferry the crew and all their equipment in, each day!



Click here to see footage of the lush backdrop of Mexico used in the film, and a short interview with the crew who were brave enough to film important shots from a helicopter

Chile
The climax of the film was shot in the Atacama Desert, which features prominently. Its mystical, barren landscape is used in the film because of its similarities with Boliva- where some of the plot is set. The final showdown was filmed at La Silla Paranal, a renowned observatory, which is roughly 75 miles south of Antofagasta. Situated 6,000 above sea level and built into the crest of a mountain, it is known for housing some of the most advanced telescopes in the world; and is the central hideout for the films villain, Dominic Greene.



Other remote locations in the film can be spotted, such as when Bond and Camille walk through a deserted village in Chacabuco, and an abandoned train station in Baquedano, which is near to the desert where Bond abandons Green.



Panama
Many locations during the film are intended to represent a faux-Boliva and the Old Town of Panama City is one of the most prolific examples. Shooting around the streets and filming the colonial buildings, historic churches and bright, airy squares provide a spectacular, quintessentially Latin backdrop. After meeting at Howard airport, the instant chemistry between Bond and his girl of the moment, Agent Fields mean they quickly head for the hotel. These scenes were filmed in the National Institute of Culture, which was given a full makeover during filming as it’s meant to represent the Bolivian Andeean Grand Hotel.



One of the longest standing members’ clubs but previously a ruin, The Old Union Club was also rebuilt by the production team, leaving a little bit of Bond behind for. The team carefully restored the rubble into a lush, illuminated hotspot, used to film a party held by villain Dominic Green, that Bond infiltrates.



Colon was also filmed, particularly in its residential areas and the Fenix Building, where Bond is given some information about Camille Greene. The area was also used in order to represent Haiti. Coco Solo, once a pretty military town before it was invaded by the US in 1989, was completely refurbished in order to film Bond driving down one of its roads as he calls through to M. The Arboix building also features in the beginning of the film, and in the first fight scene, which spills out from a room and onto a dangerously high balcony.



A boat chase sequence is also filmed in the area near to Cabra Island, which is used as a paradise island for Bond to escape to. Privately owned, the island is on a famous smuggling route, and locals suspect that the lead coffin of Sir Francis Drake lies at the bottom of its coral reef.



Click here to see a video which the locations manager on the shoot James Grant, explains why the area is perfect for the film

The Adventure Company offers tours to each of these destinations, making it that much easier to stomp around the same spots as Bond.

The Turtles, Islands and Mountains Family Holiday is perfect for little boy Bonds’ to explore Panama. Taking the time to visit a marine park, a turtle conservatory and Panama City, each desired travel backdrop is covered on this 2-week tour. Tour Ref for the site is TRFP.



The Atacama and Patagonia tour is perfect to allow grown-up Bond fans to explore the genuine and intended locations in the latest Bond flick. The tour covers Boliva and the Atacama Desert, Chile. This action-packed trip features hiking, trekking, rafting and visiting a remote community- perfect for those wishing to follow Bond on his missions to remote and untouched places. Tour Ref for the site is CL.



The Mystical Mexico tour is great for those wishing to slot themselves seamlessly into a Bond backdrop. The itinerary incorporates tours of Mexico City, ancient ruins, bustling markets and the chance to snorkel in the crystal clear waters of a cenote (an underground river). Tour Ref for the site is MX .



Have you ever been on any of these tours? We’d love to hear from you! Please get in touch or leave a comment.

Thanks for reading,
The Adventure Company
“Adventure is our middle name”

*Pictures courtesy of The Quantum of Solace Facebook Fan Page and Videos courtesy of the Bond blog

The Adventure Company: Group Adventures in Turkey

Our latest entry is from Brenda Loft, a well travelled but a self-confessed adventure novice. She tells us about her first-time experience, having recently come back from our Turkey Activity Weekand lets us in on what it was like to take a holiday with a group of people you didn’t know before you left..

“Having never been on an adventure vacation before, I was not quite sure what to expect from our trip to Turkey. My girlfriend Erica and I decided 6 months ago to travel somewhere and finally decided on this trip to Turkey with the Adventure Company. As we boarded the plane, we tried to guess who might be part of our group, and after recognizing Andy from his Facebook page and from The Adventure Company fanpage, (where we had originally enquired as to who else would be traveling with us) we made friends quickly.



Once we landed, we were warmly greeted by our Tour Guide Mert, who taught us some phrases and expressions that would come in handy over the week ahead. More importantly, once our bags were in our room, Mert took us all to dinner and out for dancing to start the week off, and help us get to know one another. Our group, which included people from Australia, England, Ireland and Canada, bonded very quickly, and the conversation was as free-flowing as the drinks.



Our first day, we went sea kayaking, and I was immediately taken with the beauty of the scenery, the colour of the water, and the peaceful yet exciting atmosphere. My kayak partner Mark, was a kind, pleasant man from England, and we traded life stories while we paddled with a little more competitiveness than perhaps was necessary. We took a break and climbed up to an ancient open air theatre and saw the scenery from another breathtaking perspective. Once back in the kayaks, Mert paused to give us detailed explanations of the tombs we saw, which were fascinating. Mert had a remarkable comprehension of Turkish history, and we quickly learned that was due to his extensive education, including a PhD in Archeology. A few of us commented that it was like having an authentic Indiana Jones to teach us about his country, we couldn’t have anticipated such a knowledgeable guide.



Our next break came when we reached the beach, and while most of us swam, we were treated to the singing and dancing of dozens of Turkish women on the two boats anchored nearby. We cheered to show our appreciation, and they were obviously enjoying themselves. After lunch, the trip back to the hotel, and a few hours of personal time, we all agreed to a group dinner, and dancing. This would become a regular nightly routine.

Mountain biking the next day caused me some anxiety! Most of the activities that were scheduled were ones I had never done before. I was particularly nervous this day, and was the last one to finally get a bike, and instructions. The activities were so well planned for all different ability levels, and our Mountain Biking instructor took plenty of time to explain (for the 15th time) the gears, brakes and his suggestions for a safe ride down.

After nearly choosing to follow the group in the van, I reminded myself that I hadn’t flown all the way from Canada, and driven up a mountain in Turkey to ride back down in the van, so I set out with the other rookies, while the seasoned athletes led the way. Anxiety was quickly replaced with adrenaline, and as I got more comfortable, my speed increased. The unbelievable scenery made such an impact as we rode down the mountain, it was as if my soul took a picture. Midway through the ride, while waiting at a rest stop, we heard that Mert had an accident and was injured. Although he had multiple abrasions and possibly a broken rib, he had to be convinced to ride in the van for the rest of the day. The last portion of the route was increasingly difficult, and one by one the van picked us up as we gave up. Only the very seasoned athletes made it to the end, but I heard Paula and Mic, clearly the most athletic of our group, admit that the last part was a challenge.



Scuba diving and snorkeling was planned for the following day, and everyone was looking forward to it. The time on the boat was so relaxing and beautiful and the weather was so cooperative; it was a perfect day. It gave us all a chance to get to know more of the group, and I enjoyed a quiet, relaxed conversation with Helene while others read, dove, swam or listened to music. After 2 dives at different locations, and our trip back to Kas, a group consensus was made to have dinner on the beach. Once again Mert made fantastic arrangements for us. When we arrived later that night, the tables on the beach were lit by lanterns, and an impromptu gave of volleyball ensued, while others engaged in philosophical conversation. It was so beautiful and peaceful; the fire burned beside us as we enjoyed the delicious food, and relaxed company.



The next day was a “free day”, and most of the group agreed to enjoy a Turkish bath. I had done some reading before the trip about Turkish culture and customs, but I quickly learned the difference between reading about something, and experiencing it. For that reason, I can only say that everyone should be so fortunate to experience it. After a hot sauna and playful water fight, we were exfoliated, cleaned, massaged and scrubbed by the friendly staff, and then rested while our facial mask reversed the effects of our late nights and vacation lifestyles.



The following day included a trip to the Turkish Mud Bath and Hot Springs. We traveled by boat and after a rest on the beach and some swimming, we arrived. We covered ourselves in mud and let it dry on us before showering and heading to the Hot Sulphur Spring. Our buoyancy was amazing and our skin felt so soft. Even the smell of the spring quickly subsided as we became accustomed to it and a few of us ventured under the water. Oh the sacrifices we make in the pursuit of beauty!



White water rafting was planned for the following day, and this was yet again something I had never done before. All week I had a sense of accomplishment from overcoming the fears of trying something new, and by now I was no longer nervous to try anything. I was impressed and reassured with the comprehensive explanations before each excursion, and how every level of ability was catered to. Now, I looked forward to the thrill of it. It was again something that was more enjoyable than I could have expected, and after the boat tipped the first time, we were all eager to find reasons to throw ourselves overboard. For those that preferred a drier boat, there was one, but by the end of the excursion, the wet boat had inherited a few more adventure seekers. For the final part, we abandoned the raft and opted to be carried away by the river. It was fantastic. This was our last full day in Turkey, and we all went out for dinner, dancing, and karaoke, and although the morning would come quickly, we still had a difficult time calling it a night.





The journey home took longer than Erica and I expected, but we couldn’t believe how much fun we had, how fun each bruise was to get, and how wonderful the people we met were. Mert was an exceptional guide, giving us plenty of options for us to choose, and even helped the shoppers find the gifts and souvenirs they wanted.

He ensured that not only the activities were fantastic, but also that we enjoyed a wide variety of restaurants and cultural experiences. Everyone exchanged email addresses, and after a few days home, many of us have already reconnected and shared our pictures. I generally consider myself an avid traveler, having been to 22 countries thus far, but this was definitely the most enjoyable, relaxing and yet also exciting vacation I have ever had. I will not soon forget it.”

Brenda and her group took part in the Turkey Activity Week. The Tour Reference for this is TAW on our site.

Have you been on a similar trip with us recently? If so, we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch or leave a comment.

Thanks for reading,
The Adventure Company
”Adventure is our middle name”

The Adventure Company: Solo-Travelling from Buenos Aires to Rio

Our latest entry is from Alison Tebby who recently travelled with us to South America on our Buenos Aires to Rio trip. She lets us in on her solo-travelling experience, and tells us more about the highlights of her trip:

“Who are you going on holiday with?”
“Myself”
“What do you mean yourself?”
“Just me and a few other people I don’t know”



This is how it starts every time I say I am going away on my own, but being a solo traveller, doesn’t mean I can’t go and see the world and the Adventure Company helps me fulfil my dreams of travelling without having to pay a single supplement. Travelling alone just makes it more exciting, you know the destination but not who will be accompanying you on the journey.

So one afternoon in September I set off to Heathrow airport to start my journey to Argentina. I am going on the company’s new Buenos Aires to Rio trip and I can’t wait. I have never been to South America and now I can see 2 countries in 2 weeks.

The journey is always full of anticipation, scanning the people at the airport, are they going to be on the trip or maybe them over in the corner? Soon we are there and the adventure begins, introductions everywhere and I realise that out of the 13 of us, there are 6 solo travellers and I meet my roommate for the next 14 days, an instant friend.

Unfortunately we only had 2 nights in Buenos Aires but that was plenty of time to see the colourful La Boca district and get in a Tango Show, which was amazing (and thankfully no participation involved!).



Then we headed to the Argentinean and Brazilian border to see the Iguaçu Falls. I would wholly recommend seeing them from both sides In Argentina, you can see them drop to oblivion and can’t imagine their size until you pass over to Brazil and can watch the water fall. Be prepared to get a little wet venturing near but on a hot day, it was actually refreshing! Another way to see them in their full glory is a ten minute optional helicopter ride, which was incredible.



From here we headed inland in Brazil to Bonito for some freshwater snorkelling, where we were swept along in the current, narrowly avoiding fallen tree trunks and reeds, the fish oblivious to it all. La Gruto do Lago Azul (The Cave of the Blue Lake) is also visited on the second day here, which involves a steep descent into the cave and the inevitable climb back out! I thought our trip was graded gentle?





Next has to be my highlight of the trip, The Pantanal and a stay on a caiman ranch in the middle of nowhere. The hosts and guides were fantastic and went out of their way to ensure we had an amazing time. I finally got my first proper view of a toucan, which I had been waiting for since Iguaçu.





We also got to hold baby caiman and feed the adults, and 4 of us even braved the little boat ride around the lagoon! Thankfully the caiman weren’t interested in us, but we still felt a little relieved when we were back on solid ground!





I even tackled another fear and tried horse riding for the first time, which is definitely a good way to see the area and spot the wildlife, although I’m not sure I’ll take it up as a new hobby just yet.



I was sad to leave the ranch but next stop was Paraty, an old colonial town on the Atlantic coast, south of Rio. It really is a pretty place and although we didn’t have much sun going out on a boat, it was a nice and relaxing stop before we finally hit the hustle and bustle of Rio!



I had been looking forward to Rio the whole time, with Sugar Loaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer at the top of my must see list. Sadly the day we got there, Sugar Loaf was engulfed in cloud, so we didn’t see much from there. Christ the Redeemer faired a little better the following day, with only a little wind and the odd spot of rain keeping us company.




We stayed in Copacabana, which I would recommend to everyone, it was the typical image of Brazil walking down the beach and seeing everyone playing football, volleyball & surfing. Also a night at a Samba house, kept us dancing the night away and with a few Caipirinhas down us, we felt like locals!

Far too quickly our holiday came to end, but it was an amazing experience and I made lots of friends. I would recommend it to anyone. Travelling alone doesn’t have to be lonely and just adds to the experience, I’ve already got my next holiday booked!

Alison went on the Buenos Aires to Rio trip. You can type in the tour reference: BP on our website to find out more.

Have you been on a similar trip? Or have you solo-travelled with us? We always like to hear from you. Please get in touch via the links at the side of the page, or leave a comment below.


Thanks for reading,

The Adventure Company

“Adventure is our middle name”

The Adventure Company: Merton in India

Following the success of Paul Merton in China last year, Channel Five once again follows the comedian and presenter as he tours India for a new five-part travel documentary series.




In the first of the series, which aired last week, Paul arrived in Delhi, where he visited the landmark attraction, learnt about etiquette from the locals and encountered street monkeys. His journey continues across the rugged terrain of the North to the sultry heat of the South.




Along the way, the ‘unlikely explorer’ meets interesting characters, discovers amazing wildlife and investigates Indian culture and religious tradition.




If you’d like to follow in the footsteps of Paul Merton, the UK’s leading adventure tour operator, The Adventure Travel Company, offers tours of India, which not only take you off the beaten track but afford memorable opportunities to meet the locals.




Led by local guides, The Adventure Company’s trips to India also aim to get to the heart of this fascinating country and give travellers an insight into life away from the tourist trail.



The Adventure Company offers two tours, which follow a similar route to Paul’s great adventure:

Tropical South

From the shore temples of Mahalbalipuram across the plains entering Kerala to the exquisitely carved temple towers of Tanjore and Madurai, this is a fascinating journey through India’s mystical deep south.



Travellers will visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary to look for sambar, otters, wild boar, gaurs, an abundance of birdlife and perhaps even elephant, tigers and leopard. At Kumarakom, the group will experience a special homestay in a backwater village before boarding a houseboat for a cruise along the palm-lined rivers, lagoons and emerald-green rice paddies of Malabar.

Tiger Trails & Taj Mahal Family Adventure

This family adventure travels to the three majestic and captivating cities that make up India’s Golden Triangle – Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.



In Delhi, families will take a city tour of the bustling markets, bazaars, mosques and temples before travelling by train to Agra to enjoy sunrise at what has been described as the world’s most beautiful building – the Taj Mahal.



En route to the pink city of Jaipur, the trip spends two nights at Ranthambore National Park where crocodiles, deer, leopards and tigers can be encountered on game drives.





Have you been on either of these trips? Feel free to tell us more, we’re looking for content for our blog, and would love to hear from you.

For more details about both tours, visit here:

(Tropical South Tour Ref: TR) and here:

(Wildlife and Moghul Cities Tour Ref: NI)

Thanks for reading

The Adventure Company

“Adventure is our middle name”

The Adventure Company: Pack up your marmalade sandwiches and head to Peru!

Paddington Bear, the ever so polite immigrant bear from Darkest Peru, with his old bush hat, battered suitcase and marmalade sandwiches today celebrates his 50th birthday.



The first book featuring the loveable bear, created by author Michael Bond, was published on 13th October 1958, and the enduring popular series of 70 books of Paddington Bear’s adventures have been translated into 30 languages and have sold more than 30 million copies worldwide.



If exploring the ancient wonders of darkest Peru is high up on your travel wishlist, The Adventure Company offers a host of itineraries to suit intrepid hikers to families with young children.



Even better, your trip to Peru in the year of the birth of one of the best loved characters in children’s literature, will help a local charity. For each person travelling on tours of Peru, The Adventure Company donates £5 to the charity SOS Children to help them with their community-based projects supporting under-privileged children.



The Adventure Company: Classic Peru Tour

Covering the highlights of Peru, this trip takes you to the highest navigable lake in the world – Lake Titicaca; the birthplace of the Inca Empire. Head to Cusco for a city tour and the chance to explore the history and culture in the museums, the famous market and through the artists’ district of San Blas. From Cusco, journey to the Sacred Valley – the heartland of the Inca Empire.



Here, you will have the chance to experience traditional Inca markets, impressive architecture and visit the ‘lost city’ of Machu Picchu, close to where Paddington Bear is rumoured to be from. The Classic Peru is a 22-day trip and departs on 13th December 2008 and costs from £2,499 per person including flights, accommodation and transport.



The Adventure Company offers a total of eight memorable tours of Peru featuring a choice of 11, 15 and 16-day itineraries as well as the action-packed 22-day Classic Peru trip.





See also the 11-day Adventure Company Inca Trail, featuring one of the world’s finest trekking routes, departs on 30th April 2009 and costs from £1,499 per person including flights, accommodation and transport.

The charitable donations apply to all eight tours running on selected dates throughout 2009 and 2010.



Have you been to Peru with The Adventure Company? How was your experience? We’d love to hear from you. Get in touch here, or via our various social pages listed on the right.

Thanks for reading!

The Adventure Company

”Adventure is our middle name”