Do you consider yourself to be an adrenaline junkie? Do you love going on active adventure holidays full of fun and excitement? You’re not alone – in fact, research has revealed that 80% of Brits are bored of beach holidays and would rather ditch the flip flops and head out exploring.
Plus, a recent survey from renowned travel adventure holiday provider Exodus also revealed that 59% of holidaymakers choose action trips to step outside their comfort zone and experience something new.
So, what is it exactly that makes us crave adventure on holiday? Why do we want to push ourselves out of our comfort zones?
The thrill of an adrenaline rush
Well, there’s a scientific reason behind our thrill-seeking ways. Healthline state that during periods of excitement, terror or intense emotion, human bodies produce a hormone called adrenaline.
Often referred to as the “fight or flight” hormone, adrenaline allows your body to react to potentially stressful or dangerous situations.
It is released by the adrenal glands into the bloodstream, sending blood and oxygen to our muscles which enhances our strength and performance.
When we get a rush of adrenaline, it typically increases our heart rate, heightens senses and makes us feel energised. This “rush” or “high” is what many so-called adrenaline junkies crave.
There are lots of ways to get an adrenaline rush, but many of the common thrill-inducing activities include white water rafting, rock climbing, bungee jumping, sky diving, skiing and more.
If you’re a self-confessed thrill-seeker and are keen to plan your next action-packed trip, we’re here to help. Here are four of the very best adventure holidays that are sure to excite even the most avid adrenaline junkies.
Sky Diving in Australia
Sky diving over the Great Barrier Reef in Australia is certainly a thrill-seeker dream activity. Head into the sky in a small aeroplane with a group of like-minded travellers, before jumping out with your instructor into the clouds.
After free-falling for between 30 and 60 seconds, your parachute will be deployed, and you’ll float down to earth taking in breath-taking views of the Coral Sea. Other activities you can enjoy during your trip include bungee jumping, scuba diving and of course surfing.
Bungee Jumping in New Zealand
With it’s spectacular mountainous landscape, New Zealand is the perfect location for those wanting to experience a bungee jump.
And travellers who aren’t afraid to go big will be best heading to the highest bungee jump in the country – Nevis Bungy near Queenstown. The huge 134m jump means you’ll free fall for 8.5 seconds – what better way to get a real adrenaline rush! You can also spend time in New Zealand jet boating, caving and heli-skiing.
White Water Rafting in the USA
Take to the water along the Colorado River in the United States, which runs for a massive 2,330km from the Rocky Mountains into the Gulf of California.
It offers some of the best white-water rafting conditions in the world, where you’re sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Take in the magnificent views while you navigate the waters and spend the rest of your holiday hiking to famous viewpoints and lesser-known waterfalls.
Paragliding in Austria
Austria is renowned for its amazing landscapes, from vast green meadows to icy mountains and vast blue lakes.
Those seeking an adrenaline rush will enjoy soaring like a bird over the mountains on a paragliding adventure, taking in the amazing views of the Austrian landscape.
There are plenty of other activities to enjoy here, including mountain biking, kayaking, skiing, tobogganing and much more.
Featured Image |Jakob Owens on Unsplash
Why not start planning your next adventure today?
Totally want to do bungee jumping 😅