Well, winter is finally here, and for us in the Aus Geo ADVENTURE office, it’s arrival is always greeted with a mix of sighs and cheers, reflecting how a lot of outdoor enthusiasts greet this time of year.
For some of us, it means finalising that annual trip to the ski fields, whether the ones here in Australia, or those across the ditch in New Zealand. For those who prefer to avoid the ‘chilly’ season, it may mean that long-awaited overseas adventure, to warmer climes, is close to finally happening. Alternatively, some of us head into the outback, or up into the tropical regions of Australia for that escape.
Wherever you decide to go – or don’t go; staying around home this time of year is what this writer loves doing most – it’ll no doubt be fun. Simply being outdoors is often enough for that mental recharge.
Of course, we’ve been busy producing new content, with this newsletter a prime example. We range far and wide in this one; Matt Newton recounts a brilliant rafting trip down a remote South American river, while we reveal just why Hong Kong is fast becoming more popular with active travellers.
Also in this newsletter, we detail what you need, and how to prepare, for your first bikepacking adventure. On top of this we review two excellent outdoor products; Senior Gear Tester Mark Waston has spent the past six weeks putting Jetboil’s new TrailCook camp stove system through its paces and has also been dossing down on a new lightweight (and uber-comfy) Sea to Summit sleeping mat. You can read both of those gear reviews below.
The best thing about new destinations to read about – and new gear to check out – is that it helps keep you (and us) motivated to get outdoors as much as we can, regardless of how cold (or hot) it is. I know most of us don’t really need an excuse to get outside, but all this cracking content gives you more excuses anway, so make the most of it!
Seeya next time!
