Gabrielle Boyle

Mist stirs among the trees during a horse ride in the Glenworth Valley, a short drive from Sydney. Image © Gabrielle Boyle

I booked to take part in the two hour horse riding adventure. Both myself and my friends had ridden just a handful of times before, but this was no problem at all. From the moment we arrived, the helpful staff had everything under control. They helped us understand the basics, from safety gear, to mounting, talking to the horse and handling the reigns. I felt empowered from the very start.

Gabby and her new friend, Gus, ready for a ride in the hills. Image © Gabrielle Boyle

I was matched with Gus, a sweet-natured horse with a gentle temperament. Gus knew exactly how to handle an inexperienced rider like me. As we set out, he slipped seamlessly into the line of horses with other new riders. He was easy to control, despite my lack of horsemanship. He was a pleasure to ride.

In the early morning sun, we weaved our way through gullies, paddocks and fiends. The air was cool and crisp, and the valley was blanketed in dense white winter fog. But as the sun slowly rose, the fog gave way to a clear, crisp and perfectly sunny winter’s day.

We meandered through the bush, listening to tips and tricks from Aundre, our expert guide. He explained the basics about trotting, and within minutes we had the horses moving at a decent pace. Despite my inexperience, I felt confident and in control. I learnt how to hold the reigns properly, rise & fall in the saddle during a trot, and basic commands for controlling the horse. It was exhilarating.

There really are few things more pleasant watching the world slide by from on top of a horse. The scenery in Glenworth Valley is spectacular from every angle. One of the things I have noticed as I get older is that “fitness” is more than just muscle mass, strength and flexibility. Mental fitness is for me, equally important. Getting outside and surrounding myself in nature has a profound impact on feeling of wellbeing.

The beautiful horses at Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures, near Gosford north of Sydney. Image © Gabrielle Boyle

The ride lasted two full hours, and I could not recommend it more highly. It’s scenic, well organised, and caters perfectly for all experience levels. And make sure you leave time afterwards to sit back, relax with a coffee in hand, and enjoy the scenery.

Getting there: Glenworth Valley is about an hour’s drive north of Sydney via the M1.

What to wear: Active wear. Long pants, jeans, leggings. T-shirt, jumper, sunscreen. Closed shoes or work boots.

The stunning Glenworth Valley enjoyed on a horse ride with Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures. Image © Gabrielle Boyle

Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures

69 Crooks Road, Glenworth Valley, NSW, Australia

WEBSITE

CHECK AVAILABILITY

Gabrielle Boyle

Gabrielle Boyle is a reporter for Nine News Australia, based in Sydney. With fifteen years experience in television reporting and presenting, Gabrielle specialises in breaking news, and thrives on the adrenalin which comes with covering breaking national and international news.
In her spare time, you will find her enjoying the great outdoors, whether it be bushwalking in the Blue Mountains, kayaking on Sydney Harbour or camping out in the Royal National Park.
Follow Gabrielle’s off-camera adventures on Instagram or Twitter.

Skye Gilkeson

A quick underwater selfie caught on the GoPro while snorkelling off Bunaken Island, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Bunaken Island, Manado

While a small group braved the biting morning Manado sun, sprawled across the bow, I retreated to the canopy clinging to my camera, wishing there was a way to bottle all those blues. We couldn’t feel further from the highlands. Out on the water, the air was warm but quickly pushed aside by the welcome sea breeze. Buildings on shore appeared to be swallowed up by coconut groves the farther we were from the harbour. Gliding into Bunaken National Park, the shallows shimmered in the midday sun. We were quickly fitted for flippers and masks before heading just off shore again ready for some underwater exploring.

Beautiful underwater show found while snorkelling off Bunaken Island, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Colourful coral and marine life seen while snorkelling off Bunaken Island, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Snorkelling curve two off Bunaken Island is a colourful and light-filled underwater scene. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Bunaken Island is part of the Bunaken-Manado Tua National Park and just one of 100 dive sites in North Sulawesi; an underwater haven for snorkelling enthusiasts and divers. We were visiting at the beginning of the peak season (May to August). Home to 13 species of coral and 91 types of fish my hopes were high that the reef was well preserved and a colourful spectacle would be waiting underwater. That’s exactly what we found.

Schools of fish swimming at the drop off point on our Bunaken Island snorkelling spot. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Pete Mahon from Lostnorfound does a backflip off our boat near Bunaken Island, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Bounding off the boat GoPros in hand, our group quickly dispersed. The coral was gorgeous, there were plenty of fish and after flirting with the deep drop off a few times, I understood that illusive pull this area has on divers from around the globe. Having been snorkelling in the Gili Islands, Maldives and more recently near Phi Phi Island in Thailand, Bunaken is now up there with the Maldives as the best so far for me.

After a good spell splashing around underwater we made our way back to the island for lunch. We sipped on fresh coconuts and enjoyed grilled fish, chicken curry and vegetables and some welcome shade from the sun, before cruising back to the harbour.

Fresh local fish, greens and a young coconut for lunch on Bunaken Island, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Morning tide at Bunaken Island, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Tangkoko Nature Reserve

Our day of eco-touring continued as we made our way to Tangkoko Nature Reserve in search of those selfie-hungry monkeys, the crested black macaques. The conservational area covers about 3,196 hectares and is about an hour’s drive from Manado (allow extra time for traffic and navigating the narrow roads). We arrived in the late afternoon, covered every inch of our bodies in mosquito repellant and started the guided walk with a ranger. He lead us down the road, we turned into the trees and wandered in for a few hundred metres. The crested black macaques are endemic to Sulawesi and spend about 60 percent of their day on the ground, foraging for food; so you may not find the stereotypical scene of apes swinging from the trees, you might expect. It was actually quite a peculiar experience walking freely among the group. They seemed completely at ease with us being there; neither threatened nor threatening. As expected, they didn’t mind the cameras, I just took all my shots myself so there wouldn’t be any confusion later on. Losing daylight we quickly made our way back across the main path towards the black sandy beach. Tucked into a tree branch our guide pointed out a Tarsier to us. The smallest primates in the world, you will likely recognise them because of their giant saucer-like eyes.

A cheeky crested black macaque poses while foraging for food at Tangkoko Nature Reserve, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Where: Tangkoko National Park, about 1 hour’s drive from Manado (depending on traffic)

Cost: A Tangkoko tour costs around Rp. 905.000 (about $AUD 90) per person for a minimum of 2 people. The price includes transport from your hotel to Tangkoko, a local guide, a ranger at the reserve, entrance fee, lunch at a local restaurant, drinking water and local taxes.

What to pack/wear: Wear a lightweight, breathable long sleeved top and pants (in muted colours – no white or red) and comfortable closed-toe shoes. Take a day pack with water, insect repellant, binoculars (for keen bird watchers), a camera and a torch (to see the Tarsiers at dust and to lead you back down to the park entrance. There isn’t any lighting).

A group weaving its way through the trees at Tangkoko Nature Reserve, North Sulawesi. Image © Skye Gilkeson

I would recommend doing these two activities on different days as the travel time and traffic between both locations adds up quickly.

A pocket guide to help you plan your trip to Sulawesi with contacts and booking information is here.

Follow the rest 0f my Sulawesi and Maluku travels here, here and here.

The Fit Traveller was a guest of the Indonesian Ministry for Tourism for this trip to Sulawesi and Maluku. As always, the opinions, imagery and words are authentically our own.

The packing guides in this article include affiliate links through which we may receive a small commission to help support the growth and development of The Fit Traveller 

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson

The view from my spot on the sand at Maya Beach where Leonardo Di Caprio’s film The Beach was made, on Phi Phi Leh Thailand. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Phi Phi Island Snorkeling

At first light, I wandered down to my usual breakfast spot to watch the sunrise. Fuelled up for the day, I then joined the Early Bird Tour (7.30 -11.30am). Our group was a great mix of couples, singles and men and women of all ages. There were about 15 of us in total. After grabbing our flippers and snorkels, we squeezed into a trailer attached to a tractor. The tide at Phi Phi is at its highest at about lunchtime, that means the tractor transports guests out to their boats in the morning.

Maya Bay

Once in the speedboat, we made our way out to Maya Bay, the main beach of Phi Phi Leh Island, where The Beach was filmed. As the driver cut the engine and we drifted in the shallows, the limestone karsts rose up, enveloping us to each side. The colours were much more vibrant in person than on the postcards I’d seen. I stepped out of the boat with a splash, the warmth of the crystal clear water took me by surprise. As I was wading into shore slowly, a handful of long boats and other speed boats began to pull up next to ours. I could see why this was an early bird tour; it was a popular spot. I took a wander to each end of the beach, taking photos with the other tourists and found a spot in the morning sun, midway up the stretch of sand. I propped on my elbows and just enjoyed the view back out towards the sea. Others swam and posed for pictures and giggled among themselves. Despite the growing crowd, it was a peaceful scene in an idyllic setting. After an hour of relaxing, we boarded the boat again and pulled in further out in the bay to our first Phi Phi Island snorkelling spot.

Update: Sadly, Maya Bay has been closed to visitors since my visit. However, there are still plenty of other Phi Phi Island snorkeling spots to visit.

The view of the limestone karsts at Maya Bay from my snorkelling spot in the water. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson snorkelling in the beautiful aquamarine waters off Phi Phi Leh, Thailand. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Ao Ling or Monkey Beach

We went on to visit the Viking Cave and Ao Ling (Monkey Beach). I have to admit, I felt a little uncomfortable when pulling into Monkey Beach, not because of the presence of the monkeys, but more the way tourists and some guides were using them as props for photos. They were also feeding several junk food and cans of soft drink which made me even more uncomfortable with our presence there. I was happy to move on and wouldn’t recommend approaching the monkeys if you do pull in to Monkey Beach.

A tourist boat pulls up to Ao Ling (Monkey Beach) to feed and photograph the locals. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Pileh Lagoon

The highlight of the day for me was swimming in Pileh Lagoon. By the time we got to the lagoon, there were a number of other boats slowly sliding on the surface of the water through the bay’s shallow entrance. The skill of the crew was incredible. Once we got into the main lagoon, we found our own private spot for a dip. As soon as we had pulled up, I was leaping off the front of the boat, coaxing others to follow. The water was warm and an incredible greeny blue. I floated on my back taking in the beauty of the rock walls rising around us coloured by lush green foliage.

The very shallow waters in the entrance to the Pileh Lagoon, Thailand. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Long tail boat gliding along the turquoise waters in Pileh Bay, Thailand. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson

Sunrise over Angkor Wat, Cambodia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Angkor Wat Bike Tour

Waking up at 4.30 am isn’t often that appealing. But when you’re going to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat, it quickly becomes the most exciting time of day. For us, it was also made much easier when our tour guide collected us from the front door of our hotel to deliver us directly to the gates.

Samchhay from Grasshopper Adventures was leading us on our sunrise Angkor Wat bike tour. He seemed as excited as we were when he was giving us the rundown (that’s not something you always get from tour guides. We loved his enthusiasm). Samchhay gave us the option to choose our own adventure; from a shorter, road-based ride up to a longer off-road ride between each temple. We wanted a good adventure and a bit of a workout so opted for a 22km ride through the bush (the longest option). If you’re not super fit, you’ll probably still be comfortable doing a 10km ride. The route is safe and pretty flat, so you’re not doing the Tour de Angkor, don’t worry.

We arrived at the ticket office just as the sun was coming up and lined up with the rest of the early morning crowds. Tickets are $US20 per day (or $US40 for 3 days). If you aren’t keen to line up, I highly recommend buying your tickets the night before. They go on sale between 5-5.30pm and you can even go and catch the sunset while you’re around.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Walking up to the walled moat surrounding Angkor, we joined the other early risers to claim a spot to watch the sun climb. It was one of the most stunning sights I’ve ever seen and one of those moments that reminds me of why I love to travel so much. Despite the crowd, it was completely quiet (except for flashes and shutter snaps) as the group just sat, absorbed by the moment.

Samchhay led us across the bridge to enter the World Heritage-listed Angkor Archaeological Park. It’s most famous temple, Angkor Wat has just been named the best landmark in the world. Walking around the grounds, we see why it has had such an impact on visitors for so many years. Remembering that construction on the temple began in the 12th Century, the sheer size of the structure and its significance as both a religious and historical site hits as we climb through the towering stone doorways. Stepping out the other side, we follow the crowd across the grass to the famous temple. 8,000 tourists walk the path to Angkor Wat each day in peak season. Off-season still draws about 4,000 per day.

Hawkers sell breakfast, guide books and paintings near the entrance to the temple (if you are going to grab a guide-book expect to pay about $US10. A painting will be anywhere from $US50. Paying any more than that could be paying too much, but that’s entirely up to you.

Even if you don’t take a tour, I absolutely recommend getting a guide. There is so much ground to cover, both physically and historically and we found Samchhay’s knowledge (as well as his command of English) impressive.

The stairs to Angkor Wat, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

The Hubby exploring Angkor Wat, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Carvings tell the stories of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Paint remnants remain in Angkor Wat, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Angkor Wat, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Acid worn columns in Angkor Wat, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

We scaled the steep stairs to the temple doors and weaved our way through the ancient corridors scarred by hand-carved pictures carrying on Angkor’s mythological history. Faded remnants of the paint that once coloured the walls cling to a few columns and corners.

Generally, the temple is a palate of greys brushed by weather and age. Sadly, some columns have had their ankles eaten away; a devastating result of failed experimental cleaning with acid.

Considering the age and the tourist traffic the site gets it is in pretty good condition; a testament to the work and sacrifice it took to complete it (between the 12th to 16th centuries).

View from the top-level of Angkor Wat, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

The best vantage point from the temple is from the top-level. You will need to be fully covered to climb to the top though (a scarf won’t do). Men and women are required to wear at least a t-shirt and long pants. Both are cheap to purchase at the markets in Siem Reap if you haven’t packed appropriately.

The stairs to the top-level open at about 7.30 am and only 100 visitors are allowed up at a time, so get to the stairs early and line up. You won’t want to be waiting in that sun for too long. The stairs are incredibly steep too so some may find the ascent difficult. The view is rewarding though, with a clear line back down over the grounds towards the city walls.

View from the top-level of the Angkor Wat, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Breakfast was our next stop so we could fuel up for our ride. Samchhay was equipped with fresh croissants during our Wat walk too, so you won’t be starving. We ate from a small buffet of eggs, cereal, fresh fruit and coffee and then pushed off on the first leg of the ride.

The bikes provided were fantastic. We’ve ridden on some very dodgy bikes around Asia so far and these were the best we’ve had. They were obviously well maintained, our seats were already adjusted for our height. We were given good helmets and a bike bag for our bits and pieces (camera, water, sunscreen and sunglasses).

Bridge at the south gate to Angkor Thom (The Great City), Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Angkot Wat Bike Tour: Riding the Hidden Angkor Thom Trails

A short ride through cool tree-lined trails we popped out to follow Angkor Thom’s (Thom means The Great City) moat line. The silence is what you notice instantly on the ride. Away from crowds of noisy tourists, we were completely alone. It was bliss.

We pulled out on to the main road very briefly to ride across the bridge carrying you over the moat at the south gate and pedalled back off-road again climbing to ride on top of the Angkor Thom wall.

Riding on the Angkor city wall, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Riding on top of the wall was a surreal experience to say the least. Eight metres high and about 4 metres wide, it has the feel of a normal bush track, until you look off the edge at the drop to the water. We pulled up at the first corner (each section of the wall is 3 kilometres long) where a small temple was waiting. We snapped some photos of the gorgeous green moat where a group of buffalo were having a dip and rode north, passing a group of local Cambodian kids out for a ride. They were the only other people we saw on the wall section of the ride. It was magical. The northern gate was our next stop. An amazing stone structure with a face carving watching from the top of its arch.

The stone faces of Bayon Temple, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

The Stone Faces of Bayon Temple

A quick one kilometre spin down the road and we came to Bayon Temple, rejoining the crush of tourists. Thankfully, it was still early so there weren’t too many around just yet.

Bayon Temple is a Buddhist temple, built in the 12th century. It was constructed with 54 towers (9 is a lucky number in Khmer culture), only about half that number remain today. Its smiling stone faces make it a truly unique landmark.

Bayon Temple, Angkor city, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

After climbing through the temple we had a break and snacked on some fresh-cut fruit next to the neighbouring monastery. I watched as saffron-robed monks moved around the modest wooden building welcoming worshippers seeking counsel.

One local woman came for a blessing. Changing into a Khmer sampot (similar to a sarong) she knelt on the balcony, her hands to her heart as the monk prayed and poured water over her for several minutes.

Monk giving a blessing at the monastery at Bayon Temple, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Samchhay explained that the Cambodian people are typically very religious and superstitious. It is common for Buddhists to seek advice on life’s big decisions from monks in this way, whether it be on matters of business or love.

Many Cambodians also prefer to see a local medicine man rather than seeking out a hospital. Conventional doctors are very expensive for most Cambodians, so that plays a part too.

Most also carry a lucky charm of some description and you won’t find Cambodians put their bags on the ground as having them below their bottoms is considered bad luck.

A monk rises after prayer, Bayon Temple, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

The Powerful Ta Prohm Temple

Pedalling off again we rode to Ta Prohm, a temple enveloped by jungle vines and tree trunks. Also built in the 12th century it appears nature took ownership of the stone structure when the Khmers left.

Climbing through the narrow hallways of the temple is an otherworldly experience and at times quite eery.

We came upon sections where tree branches squeezed the temple tight. Pockets of light peaked through holes in the wall while other parts have completely collapsed under the weight of time and tree roots.

Ta Prohm Temple, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Ta Prohm Temple, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Ta Prohm Temple, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Ta Prohm Temple, Cambodia. All images © Skye Gilkeson

Winding our way back along the hidden trails, we made a quick stop at another small temple on our way to lunch. The last 8 or 10-kilometre stretch of our Angkor Wat bike tour we just enjoyed the ride.

The ride itself wasn’t difficult. It reminded me of biking adventures I used to go on in the country as a child in Australia. I just loved it. We came across a few locals, rode with some local kids for a stretch, but generally just took in the gorgeous greenery that opened up before us.

We had definitely worked up an appetite for lunch when we came to the end of our ride and sat down to a traditional Khmer meal of Fish Amok (fish with turmeric and spices in banana leaf), stir-fried chicken with fresh ginger and sweet and sour fish soup. It was a delicious way to finish off an incredibly memorable day.

The Fit Traveller was a guest of Grasshopper Adventures for this tour. As always, the opinions, images and words are authentically our own.

Angkor Wat Bike Tour

Grasshopper Adventures operates tours across Asia.

Tours range from half-day to short break rides (anywhere from a few days to weeks)

WEBSITE

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson

Ziplining adventure in Chiang Mai with Flight of the Gibbon. Image © Skye Gilkeson

I’m not a true adrenalin junkie but I do like to stretch my physical and mental limits. So when I saw the longest zipline in Asia carried you over the canopy of the Chiang Mai rainforest, I had to take on the challenge.

Flight of the Gibbon runs half-day tours out of Chiang Mai. They picked us up from our hotel at about 6.30 in the morning. Our group was small; it included the two of us, a couple from China and a solo traveller from Australia. A safety briefing video played during the drive and gave us more of a visual feel for the ziplining course we were about to tackle. The 55 minute drive up into the mountains overlooking the city was a lovely way to start the day as we got our first glimpses of the mountains, as the sun was rising behind them.

Flight of the Gibbon safety briefing in the Thailand’s Chiang Mai jungle. Image © Skye Gilkeson

The van then delivered us to base camp. From the outset we could tell this was a professional outfit, which is something that’s kind of essential when you’re putting your life in a tour company’s hands.

Armed with a fresh cup of espresso, harness and helmet and we were set to start the 2-hour course. Back in the van for a quick five minute drive and we arrived at the first platform. Chai and Aof were our guides for the day. Thankfully, their english was perfect (as well as their Thai and Chinese) and they were fun and fit guys. They showed us the ropes (or cables as it were), explaining the do’s and dont’s and made us feel confident in their hands.

During the canopy tour, one Sky Ranger always leads the way. He floats over first, then each member of the group follows, one at a time, with the second Sky Ranger bringing up the rear. That first line definitely got my heart racing. It’s short and quite quick and a great warm up for the rest of the course. Ziplining isn’t like skydiving where you push yourself out into the open sky. You quite literally sit down and your weight carries you down the line. Tucking your legs up increases your speed, dropping them down provides a bit of resistance and slows you slightly. The Sky Ranger at the next platform helps you to stop too, so all you really have to do is to sit back and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, the centuries old trees at your feet and the sounds of the Gibbons and cicadas singing in the distance.

Tackling the longest zip line in Asia in the Chiang Mai tree tops in northern Thailand. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Snapped midway along the 800m zip line in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Flight of the Gibbon has something other courses in the area don’t have – the longest single zipline in Asia. The 800 metre line is only a few ziplines into the course too. But just before you jet across, special treat awaits; a meet-and-greet with local wild Gibbons.

A wild Gibbon popped in to say hello during our zip lining adventure in the Chiang Mai jungle. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Right near the zipline platform there is a tree with a flow feeding platform. We caught one gorgeous white-handed Gibbon enjoying the fresh fruit and vegetables on offer, others swung around the nearby treetops and a white Gibbon sat quietly watching as us, as we watched him. Protecting these primates is a big part of what the tour company does, so as you hike from one station to the next, they describe the flora and fauna we pass and the particular importance of respecting the beautiful apes.

Walking one of the sky bridges through the Chiang Mai rainforest canopy with Flight of the Gibbon. Image © Skye Gilkeson

There are 18 ziplines you’ll conquer in total. You’ll also carefully traverse 3 sky bridges, climb stairs that cling to tall trees, drop into a tree house for your own Swiss Family Robinson moment and rapel down a couple of very tall tree trunks – one is 14 metres long and the other a 45 metre drop, delivering you down to solid ground after your final zipline. The tree top adventure was unlike anything I had ever done before. It was a truly unique challenge and a must-try for anyone with a touch of adventurous spirit.

Stepping backwards off a platform ready to zip across the Chiang Mai jungle canopy with Flight of the Gibbon. Image © Skye Gilkeson

The day doesn’t end there though. Back to base camp and we were treated to a traditional Thai meal. Red rice with steamed locally grown vegetables, chicken curry and fresh chunks of watermelon and pineapple were the perfect pre-hike fuel. We enjoyed the early lunch while listening to traditional acoustic music.

Climbing the stairs to the top tier of the waterfall in Thailand’s Chiang Mai jungle. Image © Skye Gilkeson

A trek up the 7 tiers of Mae Kampong Falls is next. You’ll jump in the van again for a quick drive up the road. It’s there you begin the climb up the falls. If you don’t quick have the fitness to climb the hundreds of (very steep) stairs, you can sit by the lower pool and watch the water fall from below. When we passed through a young girl was having a dip while her mother and another local woman were enjoyed the shade of the overhanging branches. For those who are up for a bit of a workout, you’ll climb to the top pretty effortlessly in about 15 minutes. A tranquil setting and a cosy log seat awaits for a quick break before you descend again.

A Chiang Mai waterfall, Thailand. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Why We Loved the Zipline Chiang Mai Experience with Flight of the Gibbon

• The ziplining course felt safe. The equipment looked new and was in perfect working order. The Sky Rangers were well across what they were doing and it was second nature to them to ensure each one of us was always securely hooked on to the safety lines at all times.
• They tailored it to each of us. For those who were a little more daring, they showed them a couple of tricks (I’m not giving away any secrets here though).
• The Sky Rangers made it fun because they were having fun too. There’s nothing worse than a guide who doesn’t want to be doing their job.
• It was such a great experience to do with The Hubby. We’ve been doing a lot of fun and active activities lately and that’s so important to keep shared interests alive and nurture your relationship. I’ve spoken about the importance of fit dates here.
• It was challenging without being terrifying. Standing on a wooden platform tens of metres off the ground does get your heart pumping. But stepping off that platform and flying through the air under the power of your own body, is extremely exhilarating.

The Fit Traveller was a guest of Flight of the Gibbon for this tour. As always, the opinions, words and images are authentically our own.

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson

Enjoying the blissful blue views from the front of our boat from Lombok to the Gili Islands. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Gili Islands Snorkeling

The gorgeous Gili Islands attracts a range of holidaymakers from the backpacker to the luxury traveller. But they all come to the Gilis for the same reason; it’s like stepping back in time.

The modern conveniences like cute cafes, restaurants and day spas are all on hand. But it’s the laid back atmosphere, the old school charm and the crystal clear water that calls visitors to the Gili Islands.

The islands are accessible by fast ferry from Bali or a 20-minute boat ride from Lombok, which is where our day on the Gilis began.

Adventure Lombok collected us after breakfast and we drove to nearby Nipah Beach where we climbed into a traditional Indonesian fishing boat (thankfully with an added engine).

Gili Trawangan Snorkeling

After cruising across to Gili Trawangan, we stopped short of the coastline in search of turtles. A couple of tips from Rul our guide on how to use the gear (it was my first snorkelling experience) and I dropped into the feast of blues below and began to take in the underwater sights.

Coral and tropical fish danced with the currents as I floated around on the surface, mesmerised. Alas, with local fishermen standing in waist-deep water near us and other eager Gili Island snorkeling tour groups also in the water, we concluded the spot is too crowded for turtles, this time.

Skye Gilkeson and The Hubby snorkelling Gili Islands, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Back in the boat and we dry off before being dropped off on Gili Trawangan, or Gili T as it’s known, with a tip from Rul to stick to the side of the road while wandering around.

With that note quickly forgotten, a near miss as a horse and carriage barrels past my shoulder acts and I understand the warning. There aren’t any cars on the Gilis. Walking, biking or the local horse and cart is the way to get around the islands – all part of the unique Gili Islands experience.

A local taxi on Gili Trawangan, Indonesia. There aren’t any cars on the island. Image © Skye Gilkeson

The biggest of the islands, it was buzzing with activity. People filled up diving shops, listening intently to a briefing before they headed out. We wandered past others relaxing with a drink, a book or a dip in the resort plunge pool.

It’s easy to see why they call Gili-T the “party” island. Bars and clubs line each side of the street with signs promoting Happy Hour deal and their menus promising they don’t use Methanol in their drinks. But it’s not just a destination for school leavers; Gili-T is home to the Gilis’ five-star resorts for those on a more generous budget.

Gili Meno Snorkeling

Our half-hour stickybeak is over when we jump back on the boat, bound for the next Gili Islands snorkeling spot, this time off the quietest island, Gili Meno. A Japanese shipwreck attracts divers and snorkellers and tropical fish alike, an even more beautiful snorkeling site than the last.

We hovered above a group of divers getting a closer look at the sunken ship, their oxygen bubbles streaming to the surface.

The Hubby wanders along the waters edge during our lunch on Gili Air, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Snorkeling Gili Air

Gili Air, the last of the islands was our lunch destination. Gili Air is a good option if you aren’t looking for complete isolation, but you want to avoid the crowds. It offers a mid-point between the Meno and the Gili-T experience.

Rul led us to Neverland cafe for lunch. We cosied into a cute, thatched hut right on the sand, ordered some Indonesian favourites and take in the view. The restaurant is a hot spot for guides and their groups – with boats and people pulling in and filling up tables at the local. The food comes fast, it’s delicious and only set us back $AUD10 (for 2).

Lunching at Neverland on Gili Air, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Rul had saved the best Gili Island for snorkeling. Our Gili Air snorkeling tour began by interrupting a group of girls doing SUP yoga (sorry ladies), we pulled in close to shore and jumped in.

Rul soaked some bread and broke it into small soggy pieces. We took a little each, held it in wait and the fish began to feed. It was a surreal experience but strangely enjoyable.

Feeding fish in the waters of the Gili Islands, Indonesia. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Heading back across the glassy water, weary from a day of snorkelling and sunshine, the afternoon storm clouds began to clear over the moody mountain island of Lombok, landing us back at the resort just in time to for a sundowner on the sand.

Gili Islands Snorkeling with Adventure Lombok

JI. Raya Sengiggi Km, 8 Sengiggi Lombok

WEBSITE

The boat heading back into Lombok before the storm. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/

Skye Gilkeson

Brilliant green rice terraces in Ubud is one of the first stops on the tour. Image © Skye Gilkeson

A Scenic Ubud Bike Tour

Ubud is one of those places where you have everything within a relaxed arm’s reach, so it’s easy to ignore the surrounds. That’s where local guides can help – not just to show you where to go, but to facilitate the journey in the comfort that most of us are hoping for in a holiday.

We were picked up by our guide from our hotel at about 8.30 am and began our climb up into the Ubud hills by car. We met our fellow bikers; a couple from New Zealand and another from Victoria on the journey. By the time we reached our first stop (about 20 minutes drive) we were well acquainted and eager to start exploring together.

Related: Where to Stay in Ubud Bali

Skye Gilkeson enjoys the view over a coffee plantation north of Ubud, Bali. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Visiting an Ubud Coffee Plantation

A viewing platform overlooking the famous Bail rice terraces was the perfect place to start our adventure. A few tourist snaps later and we were back in the car for a few minutes before reaching the Manik Abian Bali Agriculture coffee plantation.

Lead down a narrow path, past coffee plants and fruit trees, we were encouraged to feel and smell the spices the plantation uses in both their coffee blends and hand-made chocolate. The aromas of cinnamon, cloves, ginger and turmeric were a beautiful way to start our day immersed in local sights, smells and sounds.

The front path delivered us to the stunning view over the ten-acre property covering the valley floor below. A small table for tasting their coffee creations was waiting for us. Our tastebuds danced through flavours from a simple black coffee to coconut, ginseng and vanilla flavoured blends, followed by some sweetened lemon tea (sweetened with honey the owner told, me “not sugar” – if only I’d had more time for that conversation).

Related: 15 Amazing Seminyak Cafes

The spices Manik Abian Bali Agriculture uses in their coffee and chocolate products. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Roasting coffee beans by hand. Ubud, Bali. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Freshly roasted coffee beans. Ubud, Bali. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Luwak Coffee in Ubud

The Ubud specialty, Kopi Luwak is what many come here for. It’s a coffee unique to Bali and one which requires a teaspoon of bravery to try. To produce Luwak coffee, wild luwaks or palm civets (similar looking to a possum) feed on coffee berries. Unable to digest the coffee bean, it eliminates it whole.

The beans are then cleaned and roasted and you apparently have a healthier, softer blend. I didn’t partake of the ‘poo’ blend, but one of my fellow tourists described it as ‘smooth and syrupy’. I’ll leave it to you to take that flavoursome journey yourself.

Related: The Ultimate Ubud Travel Guide

Coffee tasting at the Manik Abian Bali Agriculture coffee plantation and shop, Ubud. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Our Downhill Ubud Bike Tour

Now slightly more awake thanks to a caffeine fix, we driver further up the mountain to our stunning breakfast spot. Looking out at Mount Kintamani (or Mount Batur), one of Indonesia’s active volcanos (there are more than 100) over some fresh fruit, eggs and a Balinese blend prepared our group to hit the road.

Our breakfast view overlooking Kintamani, an active volcano. Ubud, Bali. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Helmets, check! Brakes, check! Tyre pressure, check!

Did I mention this is a downhill Ubud bike tour? If you’re looking to burn some serious calories, you won’t get that on this tour. The majority of the route is spent with your hand primed to hit the brakes. You are riding down a mountain after all. It makes the tour a great choice for families.

Related: Things to do in Canggu

A pit stop in a village to tour a typical house. Image © Skye Gilkeson

You will do a little off-roading of sorts when you take the first detour off the asphalt into the dirt tracks winding through local crops. Rejoining the main road (a very quiet one I should say) and we stopped to see a few locals of the creepy kind.

Our guide fearlessly collected a couple of spiders from a huge web on the side of the road and we cringed as they quickly made their way from his arm to his neck. Not to worry, he assured us he’s been bitten so many times he’s used to it and the venom isn’t that bad.

Related: Where to Find the Best Coffee in Bali

Our guide bravely displays a local spider on his upper arm. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Visiting a Village Home

Our next stop was a visit to a typical village home. Walking in the front gate we came to the rice drying hut and meet the “pet rooster used for cockfighting”, communal living rooms and the impressive family temple.

Hindu families generally build their own small temple. It’s a place where they make offerings to the Gods, worship and believe their loved ones return to be close to them after death. In comparison to the house itself, the temple is generous in size and features intricate hand-painted detailing on each structure.

The home and garden is an example of the way contemporary and conventional Indonesia cross over: a pair of sports sneakers waiting by the beautifully decorated door to the house; a soccer jersey hanging in the rural garden and a new family wagon covered in the carport.

Related: A Guide to the Best Canggu Restaurants

A pair of sneakers rest at the traditionally decorated door of a village home, north of Ubud, Bali. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Intricate detailing on the family temple in a village home. Image © Skye Gilkeson

The family’s vegetable garden complete with the family chicken, Ubud, Bali. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Roosters used in local cock fights wait patiently in a villager’s basket. Image © Skye Gilkeson

The happy homeowner: our guide’s uncle shows us around his home in a small rural village north of Ubud, Bali. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Back on the road and we rolled through more villages, passing children offering enthusiastic smiles, high-fives and a “hello!”. Women wearing colourful traditional Batik clothing walked in single file on the side of the road carrying baskets on their heads and elaborate floral offerings in their arms.

Bike Riding through Rice Fields

The scenery quickly changed again as we entered the rice fields; it was quiet, still and free of people (other than a couple of farmers working the fields). A Bali bike tour wouldn’t be complete without a jaunt through the rice fields.

It’s was a precarious route with a few soggy patches with our guide warning us that some people topple in. Nevertheless, I made it through clean and it really was my favourite part of the ride; it was so blissfully, beautifully Bali.

A Typical Balinese Lunch 

Popping out the other side of the fields, we were back on the main road and charging our way towards lunch, as the afternoon storm set in. A little wet, we arrived at a table of classic Balinese dishes including tofu, fresh chicken, coconut milk curry, tempe, vegetables and freshly-cut watermelon. Sitting, chatting and reliving the ride with our group as the rain came down in the garden around us was the perfect end to an enriching day in the Ubud hills.

Book an Ubud Bike Tour

Starting the path through the rice paddies north of Ubud, Bali. Image © Skye Gilkeson

Skye Gilkeson

Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Fit Traveller.

She is a journalist, writer, photographer, intrepid traveller and a former personal trainer with a passion for helping others reach optimal health.

As a TV journalist and producer, Skye has worked for household names such as 60 Minutes, Sunrise, TODAY and Nine News. She has also written for Women’s Health, Fodor’s Travel and Yahoo7 Travel, among many others.

Equally comfortable in a 5-star resort or hiking a far-off mountain, Skye loves the unexpected and enriching life experiences that each trip brings and can often be found in a backstreet chatting to locals with her camera in hand.

Skye is based in Sydney, working to master the balance between motherhood and her appetite for adventure.

Read more about Skye’s story here.

thefittraveller.com/