Summer 2021 saw social media brimming with images and narratives of fashionable individuals and urbanites traversing hiking paths across nearly every corner of the globe. Nearly every new post appeared to originate from a campsite in destinations such as Switzerland, France, the Caucasus, or Utah. Attractive men and women, encompassing models and tech developers, were outfitted for adventure, conquering trails and taking breaks at base camps, while soaking in breathtaking sights that were otherwise unattainable. A wave of pure elation sparked by the most straightforward yet impactful of experiences – nature. Many of these social media profiles were owned by people unlikely to venture onto mountains or camp by rivers. It was evident that this was the latest travel trend during what many refer to as ‘Covid times’. A rather sensible option for those wishing to sidestep crowds while still enjoying travel. Amusingly, this is one trend that seems poised to endure. Here’s the reason…
As our audience knows, individuals willing to invest money are often among the most varied and astute. Furthermore, equipped with limitless resources, they are eager to acquire new skills and discover innovative methods to stay fit while on vacation.
Thus, exploring a fresh destination coupled with the newest fitness trend doesn’t seem overly ambitious for someone who frequents the gym, perpetually on the lookout for novel and enjoyable experiences. With financial constraints nonexistent, affluent individuals are more than willing to drop tens and hundreds of thousands of euros on journeys that involve several hours of hiking, followed by a rejuvenating deep tissue massage at their upscale hotel, especially if located in a quaint mountain village traditionally reserved for their ski excursions. To avoid sounding crass, there’s also the aspect of herd mentality; if one person partakes, others are likely to follow suit. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this; if humanity were any different, the majority of service industries would not thrive, as much of it relies on personal recommendations, particularly among the affluent. Advertising holds little trust these days.
Hiking is, in essence, a genuinely beautiful leisure activity. It greatly benefits both mental and physical health, providing ample exertion to ensure one is exhausted by day’s end, while simultaneously fostering a clear mind due to the fresh air at greater elevations and the focus required to avoid missteps. The scenery is also breathtaking. Trekking comes in a broad spectrum of difficulties, and it should align with the hiker’s fitness level, age, and other considerations that a tour guide should assess.
With an array of trails available, whether it’s an ascent, a descent, or a leisurely walk around a lake or through a forest, it can be taxing even for the most fit individuals due to the weight of the backpack and the length of the trek, as most quality trails last at least 2 hours. It’s a wonderful activity for families, whether with youngsters or seniors. Finding the appropriate trail is all that’s required.
