The beauty of travelling is being able to experience things that you wouldn’t come across in your normal everyday life – whether it’s trying a food you’ve never heard of before, seeing something so beautiful that you remember it forever, or even taking the plunge and doing something that flips your stomach, spikes up your adrenaline, and makes your heart beat at 100mph. If the latter sounds like your bag, then here are a few ideas of what to do and where to do them:

Underwater adrenaline: Scuba diving Great Barrier Reef, Australia

With its natural beauty, it’s easy to see why the Great Barrier Reef is so popular with tourists visiting Australia. The best way to experience the beauty of the reef is through a scuba diving mask. You can get up close and personal with over 1,000 different types of fish and, if you’re lucky, you might get to see a dolphin or two. This is one of those experiences where you need photographic equipment, because as soon as you hit the water, you are overwhelmed with colours, and coral gardens. The Great Barrier Reef is the largest of its kind in the world, so it’s very popular with divers. Make sure you book a boat tour well in advance so you’re guaranteed this breathtaking experience.

(Photo: Richard Ling)

Adrenaline among clouds: Sky diving Taupo, New Zealand

Situated on the North Island of New Zealand is the town of Taupo, which is on the shore of Lake Taupo. Sky diving from 15,000 feet in the air really is one of the best ways to take in the beautiful views of Lake Taupo, and its surrounding volcanoes, forests and mountains. The sky dive is known for being the cheapest around, but it still provides a brilliant experience. You’re provided with a DVD at the end of your experience, so you can replay it over and over again, in case you missed anything due to being so taken back with all the views!

(Photo: Salt&Vinegar)

Hilly adrenaline: Skiing The Alps

The Alps is world-famous for its natural beauty, and its skiing. Whichever way you turn, there are stunning views to be admired. The Alps are divided into two sections – the Western Alps (France, Switzerland and Italy) and the Eastern Alps (Austria, Slovenia, Liechtenstein, Italy and Germany). In total, the Alps contains 180 mountains, the highest of which is the famous one, Mont Blanc. Mont Blanc reaches a staggering 15,771 feet! Whichever region of the Alps you travel to, you’re guaranteed a memorable experience. If it’s your first time skiing, there are ski instructors available to ease you in. Speaking from experience, I’d definitely recommend you use an instructor – it looks a lot easier than it is!

(Photo: spadger)

Blunt rush: Bungee jump Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge, USA

The Royal Gorge Bridge, located in Arkansas River in Fremont County, Colorado, held the record for the highest bridge in the world from 1929 to 2003, and is now a popular and world-famous bungee jumping spot. Standing at 1,053 feet high, you have to be brave to take on this jump! You fall between 800 and 900 feet in less than ten seconds, and it is truly an adrenaline rush. Bungee jumping doesn’t take place here all year roud, so make sure you do your research beforehand. But if you get the chance, and fancy experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, go for it and enjoy!

(Photo: Vijay Gunda)

If you’re taking part in any activities on your travels that are hazardous, remember to proceed with caution. If something doesn’t feel right, and you just don’t feel comfortable doing something, you can always turn away. Also, remember to take out some travel insurance with cover for hazardous activities, for just in case anything does go wrong!

[the following was a guest post by Helen Wins.]