“Every gap year student should have some skills training to help them travel in a more sensible and informed way. There are very few things in life that we expect to go off and do with no training, so why do we assume that travelling in the developing world can be achieved without preparation?”

Charlotte Hindle – author of Lonely Planet’s ‘Gap Year Guide’

Monday, 28 September 2009

‘Out of control’ thrill firms put UK gapers in danger


To view the original article Click Here

Title – ‘Out of control’ thrill firms put UK gapers in danger
Source – The Sunday Times Travel
Date – 28th September 2009

This is a story we first commented on in April 2008:

· Tour group admits errors over river-boarding death
· Family blames daughter’s death on the pursuit of most extreme sports

In my previous blog entry I included some simple ways you can take your own precautions when choosing a company whose hands you intend to put your life.

The good news is that the New Zealand government have realised that their good reputation has been dented and they need to do something to restore it and flashy advertising is no substitute for real control of the ‘adventure sports’ companies.

As always the responsible companies will welcome regulation, those who complain about it, are the ones to steer clear of.

Being safe does not take the edge off these activities and seeking out a reputable company and asking appropriate safety questions should not be something you are embarrassed to do. Reputable operators will welcome your questions and give you reasonable answers or proof of qualifications and safety / quality certificates.

Standing on the ledge of bridge with a rope tied around your legs should be enough of a thrill for anyone; knowing that the bungee rope is of the right length and in good condition should not add to the ‘excitement’.

At
Beyond The Blue (Safe Gap Year) our Gap Year and Independent Travel Safety & Awareness Workshop (GYITSA) considers issues of Travel Safety, alongside sessions on Travel Health, Ethical and Responsible Travel, Travel Equipment, Travel Insurance, Destination Advice, Transport Options, Documentation, Travel Money and Insurance and more.

Please visit our website at
www.safegapyear.com. For a complete list of Blog entries visit our National Press Archive page.

For more information on any of our services, please call us on 0845 602 55 95 or
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