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MAR - APR 2013 ISSUE 31
Parade of ColoursCarnaval International De Victoria,
Seychelles
Picturisque SpainIconic Cities
Ocean BlueWater Activities in Koh Samui
SeychellesIsland Hopping
Siege and SoakKyushu's Castles and Onsen
Adventures on Two FeetHiking British Columbia
06 10 16
08 12 18
58 Fiji Tourism
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MAR - APR 2013 ISSUE 31
REGULARS
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The Awakening DragonVietnam from Hanoi to Saigon
Publisher's Note Gear Guide Travel Tips Travel News
Mountain EnclaveParks of Rwanda
River of LifeOkavango Delta
Inside the Arctic CircleLapland's Wild Attractions
Summer MagicMulti-Sports in Switzerland
Vanilla CoastMadagascar's North East Coast
Natural HighNepal's Sagarmatha National Park
A Varied LandscapeWild Bolivia
The Land of Fire and IceWonders of Iceland
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26 36 44
Henrik Trygg/imagebank.sweden.se
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MAR - APR 2013 ISSUE 31
An Interview with the Rugby Sevens
Jewel in the PacificExploring Fiji
The Great Alpine PlaygroundClimbing Mount Kinabalu
From the Andes to the Pacific OceanKayaking Patagonia
Recipe for FairytalesSlovenia in a Nutshell
A Tale of Two CitiesBergamo and its Surroundings
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PSI/HKRFU
Mount Torq
Turismo Bergamo
B.Kladnik/www.slovenia.info
Fiji Tourism
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Sports + Travel Hong Kong is published by Sports and Travel Hong
Kong Ltd. Sports + Travel is a franchise of Lennox & Ooi Media
Pte Ltd. All articles published are in good faith and based on bona
fide information available to The Publisher at the time of press.
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Publisher accepts no responsibility or liability in any way for the
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While the Seychelles has long been known around the world for
its idyllic beaches, during the last 3 years the islands have been
steadily adding a new dimension to the destination with their now
famous Carnival.
Only in its third year, but already one of the highlights of the
Indian Ocean's annual calendar, this latest Carnival International
de Victoria (8-10 February) saw thousands of visitors arriving for
the 3-day event.
Dubbed the "Carnival of Carnivals", this year's festival
welcomed delegates from many countries like Le Runion, Madagascar,
Germany, China, Indonesia, Italy, Belgium, Zimbabwe, Zambia and
Kenya, with representatives from some of the world's most
famous
carnivals including Brazil, Trinidad & Tobago and even
England's Notting Hill festival. In the end, the UKs Notting Hill
Carnival Road Show Company stole the show claiming the first prize,
followed by Mauritius at second and Brazil's Rosa de Outro coming
third in the competition for best in show.
Showcasing the unique cultures of the Vanilla Islands -
Seychelles, Reunion, Mauritius and Madagascar - as well as African
neighbours like Zimbabwe and South Africa - the parade was the
culmination of several days of festivities, featuring local Kreol
food and music.
While fan-favourites Brazil and Notting Hill stole the show with
their elaborate floats, dozens of other international and
Seychellois dance troupes joined
local revelers for the massive parade, including even the Indian
and Russian navies - who call into Victoria annually to join the
event.
Following this year's success, planning has already begun for
next year's Carnival, slated for 25-27 April, 2014. With Air
Seychelles launching Hong Kong-Seychelles services from 25 March,
2013, there's numerous options to book inclusive Carnival packages
for next year's event. For more information on Carnival 2014 visit
www.seychelles.travel.
Carnaval de Victoria is the brainchild of Seychelles Tourism
& Culture Minister Mr. Alain St.Ange, and organized by the
Seychelles Tourism Board, headed by CEO, Elsia Grandcourt.
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TEXT: Carrie Salmon
TOP
If you havent had your ski fix this season and are craving the
white stuff under your feet, consider a spring skiing getaway to
Europe. Heading to higher, possibly glacier resorts, you can find
substantial late-season skiing. The weather is generally warmer and
sunnier, the slopes are quieter out of peak season and, with
lighter evenings, lifts can stay open slightly later. Here is our
selection of the top eight European resorts open until early May.
*
Ischgl, AustriaHigh slopes with reliable snow, aprs ski and a
momentous closing party
Significant investment in modern lifts, excellent piste grooming
with the majority of slopes facing North-west above 2000m, make
Ischgl a good late-season choice. The Silvretta Arena is Austria's
largest continuous ski area with long windy runs, steep blacks,
generous off-piste terrain and a ski route over to Samnaun,
Switzerland.
A trip to Ischgl wouldnt be complete without an aprs ski
session; try the Trofana Alm at the Silvrettabahn end of town or
the Kuhstall in the village centre.
Ischgl open until: Early MayResort altitude: 1377mHighest lift:
2872mTotal pistes: 205kmGetting there: From Hong Kong you can fly
to Munich or Zurich, take the train to Landeck then a bus/ taxi to
Ischgl. Alternatively, fly to Innsbruck via London and take the
train to resortDont miss: 30 April, resort closing concert
featuring Deep Purple Website: www.ischgl.com
Obergurgl, Austria Extensive late-season skiing with established
Tirolean aprs ski
Obergurgl is Austria's highest resort, with slopes between
1795m-3080m, and considered one of the most reliable of Europe's
non-glacier resorts. From mid November through early May, most of
the ski runs leading down to the village centre are open. Situated
in the tz valley, it offers skiing late into spring along with its
higher neighbouring resort Hochgurgl - an eight minute gondola ride
away. For the advanced skier, try the challenging mogul piste down
from Top-Wurmkogl II in Hochgurgl.
Obergurgl open until: Early MayResort altitude: 1930mHighest
lift: 3082mTotal pistes: 110kmGetting there: Fly to Innsbruck via
London and then take a train to resort or fly to Munich or Zurich
from Hong Kong and then a trainDont miss: Night skiing and mountain
party every Tuesday, 6.30pm-10pm at the Festkogl-Alm
(2650m)Website: www.obergurgl.com
* Resort closing dates and travel information correct at time of
going to print.
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8LATE-SEASON EUROPEAN SKI BREAKS
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Zermatt, Switzerland Traditional charm with majestic Matterhorn
views
Conditions in Zermatt are usually excellent throughout April.
The car-free resort, with superb gourmet mountain restaurants, is
also home to some of Europes highest slopes with the majority of
the ski area above 2000m. The predominantly north-facing slopes can
be rather chilly earlier in the season, but by April you can expect
plenty of sunshine, with slopes in good condition.
Zermatt open until: Early MayResort altitude: 1620mHighest lift:
3899mTotal pistes: 313kmGetting there: Fly to Zurich and take the
train direct from the airport to resortDont miss: Zermatt
Unplugged, 9-13 April, bringing together snowsports enthusiasts,
international stars and singer-songwriters to celebrate all things
music Website: www.zermatt.ch
Les 2 Alpes, FranceHeady heights, good for beginners and experts
alike
The village of Les 2 Alpes lies at 1650m and the ski area goes
up to an altitude of 3600m with 223km of pistes. The large glacier
suits all standards, with good family and beginner areas. For the
expert skier, you can access the renowned off-piste area of La
Grave, definitely advisable to take a guide.
2 Alpes open until: End of AprilResort altitude: 1650mHighest
lift: 3568mTotal pistes: 223kmGetting there: Fly to Lyon via Paris
or Amsterdam, then a transfer to resort via Grenoble. Or book an
all-inclusive package with Club Med Dont miss: Off-piste safety and
avalanche awareness training, Freeride Attitude, every Tuesday from
9am-4.30pm until 9 AprilWebsite: www.les2alpes.com
www.clubmed.com.hk
Saas Fee, SwitzerlandPicturesque car-free mountain village, high
altitude and snow-sure
At almost 2000m above sea level, the car-free resort of Saas Fee
is covered in snow for over half the year. The skiing area is vast
145km of groomed pistes extend up to 3600m. Saas Fee is a classic
alpine village with several fun parks, a community of keen
off-piste skiers and a high-speed lift system. Most of the glacier
pistes are red, wide and good for beginners.
Saas Fee open until: End of April Resort altitude: 1800mHighest
lift: 3500mTotal pistes: 100kmGetting there: Fly to Zurich and take
the train direct from the airport to resortWhy not: Hire a mountain
guide for a day tour of Allalinhorn (4027m) or for a more demanding
tour, the Allalinhorn Nordwand (4027m)Website: www.saas-fee.ch
Val Thorens, FranceHigh resort, guaranteed snow, ski-in and out
accommodation
Val Thorens is the highest resort in the extensive Three Valleys
ski area and, at 2300m, the highest ski village in Europe. Snow is
guaranteed, with links to Courchevel, Mribel and the Maurienne.
Noteworthy slopes include the Combe de Caron and Col de lAudzin off
the Cime de Caron. On these north-facing slopes, youll still find
wintry snow into the late season.
Val Thorens open until: Mid MayResort altitude: 2300mHighest
lift: 3200mTotal pistes: 600kmGetting there: Fly to Geneva via
Zurich or London, then a coach to resort or train transfer via
MotiersDont miss: The 3130m view of the Vanoise National Park and
glaciers between the Chavire and Thorens glacierWebsite:
www.valthorens.com
Tignes, FranceHuge ski area, value for money, suitable for
mixed-ability groups
Tignes shares the Espace Killy with neighbouring Val d'Isre,
giving access to over 300km of slopes and there is varied
accommodation within the areas five villages, including Val Claret,
Le Lac and Le Lavachet. With a high altitude and access to the
Grande Motte Glacier, the slopes are open all year; good for
beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders alike, it also
offers challenging off piste.
Tignes open until: Early MayResort altitude: 1500m to
2100mHighest lift: 3456m Total pistes: 300kmGetting there: Fly to
Geneva via Zurich or Dubai, then take a bus transfer to resort. Or
look at booking an all-inclusive package with Club MedDont miss:
The X Games from 20-22 March: the worlds best male and female
freestylers compete in the SuperPipe and Slopestyle
competitionsWebsite: www.tignes.net www.clubmed.com.hk
Cervinia, ItalySunny, snow-sure area with well-groomed
pistes
Cervinia is one of the highest resorts in Europe and despite a
lot of afternoon sun you will find superb snow conditions late in
the season. Linked with Zermatt in Switzerland, it is possible to
ski between the two resorts until May. It sits above the tree line
at just over 2000m with the Matterhorn dominating the scenery. It
is a good resort for beginners and intermediates looking to cruise
the slopes in the late season sunshine.
Cervinia open until: Early MayResort altitude: 2050m Highest
lift: 3899mTotal pistes: 350kmGetting there: Fly to Zurich and
arrange a transfer to resort by train or bus Don't miss: Head to
Zermatt and enjoy more challenging terrainWebsite:
www.cervinia.it
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September 1, 2013 in Da Nang, Vietnam
World Marathon Tours is proud to present, the rst annual Da Nang
International Marathon in the exotic Da Nang, Viet Nam. Runners and
visitors will be embraced by this third largest city in Viet Nam.
They will enjoy the coastal city with beautiful beaches boasting
some of the best resorts in Southeast Asia. This city is also
surrounded with several UNESCO world heritage sites including the
Imperial City Hue and Hoi An.
The Da Nang International Marathon will include a full marathon
(26.2 miles), a half marathon (13.1 miles), and a 5K fun run for
all to enjoy. The course also will be IAAF AIMS certied with ofcial
timing record.
The deadline for registration is July 31, 2013!
REGISTER NOW on WWW.RUNDANANG.COM to join us in beautiful Da
Nang, Viet Nam!
Come Run and have fun with the Da Nang International
Marathon!
Outward Bound Hong Kong is seeking energetic, enthusiastic and
motivated applicants who enjoy working with people in the outdoors
and helping them reach their maximum potential.
Become an Outward Bound Instructor
Essential requirements Hong Kong resident Min. age: 23,
preferably: 25+ with prior work experience First Aid qualication
(16+ hours) A belief in human potential Excellent communication
skills in English and Cantonese Bronze Medallion life-saving
qualications or equivalent Experience in the outdoors Must be able
to devote 6 months to training
Successful applicants will be invited to attend one of our two
selection weekends that will take place in March/April 2013. For
further information about the programme and to download an
application form, go to our website: http://www.outwardbound.org.hk
or email [email protected]
The Outtters Section is created especially for those of you who
have unique travel products, but have no place to get them noticed.
Our ready-made templates and smaller sizes mean you dont need huge
budgets.Contact us today to nd out more!
Call +(852) 2861 8746 or email
[email protected]
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31 March Sea to Summit Race www.xte.hk 20km & 30km trail
running in Hong Kong Island
6 April Hong Kong BMX Age Race & Open Race
www.cycling.org.hk Bike race at Hong Kong Jockey Club
7 April To The Top Hong Kong Challenge www.tothetop.hk Adventure
race at Tai Lam and Tai Mo Shan
7 April Bonaqua MHW Action Sprint Mui Wo
www.actionasiaevents.com Adventure run at Mui Wo
7 April Hong Kong Mountain Bike Race Stage 1,2,3
www.cycling.org.hk Mountain Race at Fei Ngo Sha
21 April Hong Kong Cyclist Future Race Series 5
www.cycling.org.hk Kwai Chung Sports Ground
21 April Bonaqua MHW Action Sprint Sai Kung
www.actionasiaevents.com Adventure run
28 April Bonaqua MHW Action Sprint www.actionasiaevents.com
Adventure run at Repulse Bay
28 April Hong Kong Mountain Bike Race www.cycling.org.hk Ting
Ping Shan Sheung Shui
21 April Round The Island www.avohk.org 64K trail running
14 May Bank of China (Hong Kong) 56th Festival of Sport
www.oahk.org.hk Orienteering at Ngau Liu
5 May Bonaqua MHW Action Sprint www.actionasiaevents.com
Adventure run at Discovery Bay
11 May Hong Kong Night Orienteering Open Competition
www.oahk.org.hk Night Orienteering competition
5 May Hong Kong Mountain Bike Race www.cycling.org.hk Bike race
at Hong Kong Jockey Club BMX Park
12 May Hong Kong Future Cyclists Race Series 6
www.cycling.org.hk Bike race at Victoria Park
26 May Y2Y Park Orienteering Tournament 2013 cum Hong Kong
Orienteering Ranking League 2013 (Sprint) www.oahk.org.hk
Orienteering race
CalendarEvents If you have an event that you feel should be
included on this page, please email us on
[email protected] KONG
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