Wednesday 6 November 2013

Intense Road Trip. Canning Stock Route #2

The Canning Stock Route is a track that runs from Halls Creek in the Kimberley region of Western Australia to Wiluna in the mid-west region. With a total distance of around 1,850 km (1,150 mi) it is the longest historic stock route in the world.



Crossing the historic Canning Stock Route through Australia’s rugged red sand wilderness is a modern-day explorer’s dream. One of the world’s most remote tracks, the dust-tinged, take-no-prisoners toughness of this 1820km old drover’s trail is tempered by the opportunity to meet the traditional owners of this isolated land. The Tjurabalan, Ngurrara, Martu and Birriliburu of the Western Desert still live along, and are the custodians of, the route. The chance to interact with these Western Desert communities and visit rock-art sites which date back tens of thousands of years is an enriching glimpse into the fascinating culture of this region.



You can begin at either end and the route takes at least 18 days to complete. There are five communities with fuel and supply amenities along the way but for much of the journey it really is simply just you and the sprawl of the Australian desert. Understandably then, navigating the Canning Stock Route independently requires a lot of pre-emptive planning and a permit must be obtained before travel.



You’ll need to carry all the necessary equipment, supplies, and spare parts in case of breakdowns and emergencies. The track is not maintained (although it is signed clearly) and there are hundreds of sand dunes to navigate. Prior desert driving experience and mechanical ability are mandatory for anyone contemplating a journey here. An extremely helpful booklet on preparing for and driving the route is available to download on the Four Wheel Drive Australia.

Best Honeymoon Destinations

1. Hawaii:

Often ranked as one of the best honeymoon spots in the world with volcanoes, beaches, and a remote location, you can go island hopping to Maui, Kauai, Hawaii, Molokai, and Lanai, knowing that there are a number of diverse environments to explore. There is lot that you can do in Hawaii- like hiking, water sports, spa treatment, adventure etc.



2. Tahiti:

A place that is dedicated for couples and honeymoons, Tahiti is the answer to people who are looking for something that can be remembered for a lifetime. It has over 118 islands, a volcano, and other famous destinations within such as Moorea and Bora Bora. They say that staying in paradise comes with a price and it is true with this location. Doing water sports, exploring forests, and bathing under the right amount of sun can be enjoyed here.




3. Anguilla:

Since this is another island found in the Caribbean, you can expect what can be found with the rest that have been included in this list: white sand beaches, clear blue waters, abundant plant life, and a warm embrace of sunshine with winds blowing atop the waves. If there is something different that Anguilla takes pride in more than any other destination, it would be the world-class hotels that offer affordability and class.



4. Fiji:

What will you do in a place that has over 322 islands, all seemingly blessed to no end by God’s creative hand? In visiting Fiji, you will discover a place that is known to be as Earth’s modern Eden, where every inch of the islands will fill you bliss, serenity, and romance. Aside from spending time trying the many water activities available, you can also explore and find steaming hot springs that have been prepared by volcanic craters. Life’s a beach in this destination and going from island to island will make you come back for more.



5. St. Barts:

If you want something different when visiting the Caribbean, then try out St. Barthelemy, more known as St. Bart’s which can be something to change your usual warm island mood. In fact, the moment you set foot here, you can immerse yourself in the idea of French Caribbean paradise. Even though it may be a bit intimidating, as this place is known to be visited by the rich and famous, St. Bart’s has more than enough for everyone to enjoy, including couples who are here celebrating their love on a strict budget. Conditions are perfect, the sun is right, the waters are pure, and the sand is white.



6. St. Lucia

The Caribbean is indeed a wonderful place for couples to spend some time, especially around St. Lucia. This cluster of islands has been hailed as one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world due to the many remote islets that can be visited by couples. You can even stay on an island of your own, rejuvenating yourself in therapeutic hot springs, tiring yourself with lots of water sports, or even climbing atop a volcano!



7. Italy:

You may have dreamed of eating Sicilian pizza and pasta, standing atop the Leaning Tower of Pisa, hailing at the architectural majesty of the Duomo, or exchanging sweet nothings while riding a boat on Venice’s waterways. Hotels here are well acquainted with couples that are tired of taking a day’s journey to the many tourist spots that can be visited nearby.