Travel-4Less

Kenya is an east African country that relies heavily on tourism to boost its economy.  Currently suffering a severe drought, Kenya has to reconsider its tourism offering. We take a look at the wildlife, question the food production for export and peer into a murky world on the street

Kenya Drought

As the lack of rain crisis continues, Kenya becomes less appealing to travellers who quite rightly feel guilty that their fun is in no way helping the millions of people who are suffering the devastating effects of drought. By its very nature a drought means vast areas without water and an immediate effect of this is the loss of cattle and crops leading to desperate food shortages – reports of the plight of Elephants and other wildlife are the tip of the iceberg.

The quest for real experience draws curious travellers to see areas of severe drought. Some see the Kenya drought as an opportunity to see first hand what a rain free land means to the people and wildlife.

Support Charity and Aid Organisation

If you want to help fund the relief for those affected by Kenya drought you can make a charity donation to one of the many aid agencies or take a look at this page that offers a range of charity gifts from Oxfam. You can ask that the money you give should be used however the charity think best or specify that your gift is specific – for example giving a goat is very poplular however if the gift is intended to help thos at the mercy of drought in Kenya a goat is not appropriate at this time.

Trouble in paradise

Wildlife tourism – another pillar of Kenya’s economy – is wilting in the heat.

Lake Nakuru, the birdwatcher’s paradise, is disappearing. The rivers that feed it have run dry. They come from Mau.

And in the Masai Mara, the river which hosts the world famous “crossing of the wildebeest” has fallen to its lowest ever level.

Water scarcity has brought wild animals and farmers into conflict. Deaths, injuries and compensation claims are at record highs in Narok, according to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

Poverty Tourism

However we have heard disturbing reports of poverty tourism – in some cities it is now possible to take a guided tour through the slum areas whose main attraction is its open-sewer poverty – with residents on parade like animals in a zoo.

These tours are increasing in popularity – more operators offering a wider range of tours – many claiming that they are trying to humanise the situation and insist that they will plough profits back in to schemes that will help the communities that the tours visit.

Kenya Drought – Impact on Tourism in Kenya is a post from: Europe & Beyond – A Travel Blog – Holiday Ideas – Europe and Beyond!

Snowboarding in Europe

If you are amongst one of the many in the world who finds enjoyment in the sport of snowboarding consider taking a holiday to do some snowboarding in Europe. In Europe you will find some of the best snowboarding in the world while getting to take in the beautiful scenery you can only find in this part of the world. People have been going to Europe for many years to take part in winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Here is a guide of some of the best places to go for a snowboarding or skiing holiday in Europe.

Snowboarding Val Thorens, France

Our first snowboarding spot in Europe takes us to Val Thorens in France. Val Thorens offers snowboarders the chance to board in the highest village in Europe. People from all over the world flock to Val Thorens for the chance to snowboard in this French village.

Val Thorens is filled with activity and designed for the young and those who are young at heart to take a holiday at. After a day of snow boarding you can relax at one of their elite restaurants or at the local bar for a drink. As for accommodations you will be happy to find they offer everything from comfortable and cozy rooms to luxurious and elegant all depending upon your tastes.

Pas De la Casa

Next we take a look at Pas De la Casa located right at the French border. With their free style park and cross park for snow boarders this has become a hot spot for snow boarders. At night time you can check out one of their night clubs or just go for a walk while taking in some of the ambiance of the beautiful atmosphere. There are several types of accommodations for snow boarders. There are small, simple rooms for those on a budget or more elaborate rooms featuring amenities such as room service.

St Anton, Austria

Our third location is St. Anton which features some of the best snowboarding terrain in all Austria. Everyone from those just starting out to seasoned snowboarders seem to enjoy the boarding St. Anton has to offer. You will enjoy the miles of snow covered terrain while at night you can check out the friendly locals by grabbing dinner and checking some of the local musicians. St. Anton has several places for its tourists to stay at. You can stay at a cozy room at a hotel or a charming bed and breakfast. There is something for everyone in St. Anton.

Skiing in Bansko, Bulgaria

Lastly we take a look at Bansko Bulgaria. Bansko is a great place for beginners with their unique terrain, great lifts and great amounts of snow. After a day filled with snow boarding you can head down to a local karaoke bar or have a quiet dinner at one of their quaint restaurants. There is a plethora of hotels and holiday apartments you can stay at in Bansko. If you can reserve a room or suite with a view of the mountains as it is truly breathtaking.

Val Thorens | Snowboarding & Skiing Holidays is a post from: Europe & Beyond – A Travel Blog – Holiday Ideas – Europe and Beyond!