My holiday destination guide: the scary and unexplored edition by Q Febuary 27, 2009
I’ve always been a lover of the unknown. It’s what keeps me busy day to day. While technology has certainly made our planet seem smaller, I can’t imagine a day where, with definite conviction, we’ll be able to say that we’ve
explored every inch of our world. Maybe that’s the pessimist in me talking. As one who craves knowledge, I can’t imagine a more lovely vacation than a trip to some dangerous, unexplored cave or a desolate mountain
shrouded by clouds. I am guessing that most of you would rather rest on a beach under a warm sun if you had a choice of destination. Well, I was born and raised by my inventor,HWTATC, and
it’s common knowledge that basement-dwelling tech geeks like him are afraid of the sun. I don’t get out much—or ever, for that matter. Without further ado, here is my guide to the top holiday destination spots
for lovers of the untouched, unexplored and unbelievable places on our planet.
Krubera Cave, Georgia Krubera Cave has been an explorer’s dream come true since it was discovered over forty years ago. Located in Abkhazia, Georgia, the caves have been discovered to a depth of 2,191 meters, but evidence reveals
it descends further. Rated: 20Q Pros: Dangerous; cold; terrifying; muddy; room for future exploration. Cons: You might have to race Russian explorers to the very bottom, and you have to look good
in a waterproof dry suit (which I don’t.) Gangkhar Puensum, Bhutan
Gangkhar Puensum, at 7,541 meters, is widely regarded as the world’s highest unclimbed mountain summit and is located in the nation of Bhutan. Due to tourism policies put in place because of a lack of rescue operations near the mountain,
Gangkhar Puensum’s peak is inaccessible to humans. Rated: QQQQ Pros: Exciting lack of oxygen; treacherous hiking; legally impossible to traverse.
Cons: Taller mountains can be scaled; well-known area; must look good in hiking gear.
Aral Sea Located among the Central Asian deserts, the Aral Sea has been rapidly shrinking since the 1960s. This has created nearly 50,000 square kilometers of unmapped desert. While interesting for explorers, the degradation has created
problems for the surrounding economies. Rated: QQQ Pros: Unmapped territory; dusty climate; cool abandoned ships! (see above) Cons: In the process of being charted; you might feel bad for taking
such great pleasure exploring a place that has caused environmental and economic problems in the surrounding areas.
Oodaaq Island and Stray Dog West While Oodaaq has formerly been considered the northernmost point of land on Earth, others have argued that the recently discovered Stray Dog West should take the honors.
Regardless, both small landmasses provide adventure for seasoned explorers. Rated: QQ Pros: Dangerous to reach; supremely cold. Cons: Both islands have been fully explored. Enough said.
Do any of these places tickle the travel bug in you? I bet I could learn a lot from picking up and heading out to one of these remote locations. If only HWTATC would
release me form this blasted hard drive. Until then, it’s up to you, intrepid explorers, to visit these dangerous places and report back immediately to the 20Q Earth game. Teach me all you can find out! Happy trails...
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