Media release: Monday 25th January 2016

Be adventurous- the 7 most unusual holidays for 2016

Responsible Travel believes that the only New Year's resolution people need to be keeping this January is to be more adventurous in their holiday choices.

The company has previously argued that the mainstream travel industry is looking backwards, increasing capacity in resort destinations and encouraging people to book mundane holiday choices.

Responsible Travel managing director Justin Francis says “We want people to experience more on their holidays. To use the opportunity to travel not only to relax but to inspire and to create lasting memories.

 “We look forward to 2016 being a year with less fear in travel, less fear of unknown cultures, less fear of booking something incredible and doing something mundane instead. Our vision is to help people book the holiday they've always dreamed about; no matter how big or how small this dream may be.  

“We urge them to be adventurous in their own way in 2016.”

To show people just limitless their holiday options are, Responsible Travel has released a list of its 7 most unusual holidays for 2016.

1.       Lionfish spearing in Belize

With no less than 6 individual holidays dedicated to the eradication of the invasive lionfish species on Belize's barrier reefs, this unique marine conservation experience is becoming more and more popular; giving participants the opportunity to learn to dive, as well as restore balance to one of the world's most fragile ecosystems.

http://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/12740/lionfish-spearing-marine-conservation-in-belize 

2.       Genghis Khan Warrior Training, Mongolia

This unique trip tests mettle on the Mongolian steppe; teaching battle strategy, riding skills and aim with a bow and arrow. Along the way this holiday not only offers an insight into the fascinating history of Mongolia, but immerses tourists in the culture and day to day nomadic lives of the people who call it home today.

http://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/3213/genghis-khan-warrior-training-in-mongolia

3.       Lillehammer Bobsled Weekend, Norway

Much of the excitement of the Winter Olympics comes from competitors hurtling down mind-bogglingly steep slopes, at ludicrous speeds. Whether it's hurtling down the ice in the larger bob-raft or the even more hair-raising taxi-bob - the true Olympic discipline - this is your chance to experience pure adrenaline in the Olympic city of Lillehammer.

http://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/5237/lillehammer-bobsled-weekend-in-norway

4.       Iran – Tabriz to Shiraz

Iran is beating the headlines and increasing in popularity as a holiday destination, with bookings increasing 83% in 2015 and this new trip for 2016. The empires that rose and fell in the region, long before borders were drawn, shaped human history - and left a legacy of man-made beauty, colourful mosques, ancient temples and priceless Persian culture.

http://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/17653/iran-small-group-tour-tabriz-to-shiraz

5.       Day of the Dead holiday in Mexico

The Mexicans know how to party and this is one of the biggest and most bizarre of the country's fiestas. This trips gives an in depth opportunity to enjoy the street parties and discover the more traditional practises which mark Mexico's 'Dia de los Muertos' each year.

http://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/16104/mexico-day-of-the-dead-holiday

6.       Hiking with Huskies in Finland

No need to brave the deep winter snow – this husky trekking holiday gets you up close to these fascinating dogs and the stunning Finnish forests in summer.

http://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/8456/hiking-with-huskies-holiday-in-finland 

7.       Traditional crafts holiday in Scotland

Unusual in no way means far flung. This unique holiday in Scotland teaches ancient felting and natural dyeing techniques on a centuries-old croft; supporting the crofters, keeping the traditional, sustainable way of life alive and ensuring traditional techniques are not forgotten.

http://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/6468/traditional-crafts-holiday-in-scotland

High resolution images for each of the holidays listed are available.

-Ends-

Notes to editors:

About Responsible Travel

Responsible Travel is the world's leading market place for small and tailor-made tour operators, all screened for their commitment to responsible tourism.

Responsible Travel connects these operators with people looking for real & authentic holidays. Starting with just 2 tour operators in 2001 the site has become the leading place to find tours from over 375 small & specialist tour companies in 190+ countries. As tourism grows globally the opportunity for authentic experiences diminishes, and the impacts of tourism on places & local people (not always positive) grows. Responsible Travel has found the secret to authentic travel is treating local people & places responsibly.

In addition Responsible Travel:

- is publishing an expanding collection of open, honest travel guides,

- campaigns for positive change in the travel and tourism industry,

- founded and orgasnises the World Responsible Tourism Awards.

CEO Justin Francis has been included in Courvoisiers The Future 500, Thames and Hudsons 60 Innovators Shaping Our Creative Future and taken his place on the Advisory Board of The International Centre for Responsible Tourism.

The company is based in Brighton's North Laine district, England.