Original ideas

27th August 2006

Pioneer Expeditions is a new travel company based in England that is filling an interesting niche in the market by promising “extraordinary expedition firsts”. With adventure holidays becoming more and more commonplace, the company is appealing to the adventurous traveller to join it on original one-off expedition-style itineraries around the world. These, says Pioneer, might include “swimming a volcanic crater, rafting a river from source to sea, scaling unclimbed peaks, trekking a glacier or traversing a jungle clad tropical island”. The next expedition is to Palawan Island in the Philippines, with a two-kilometre swim across volcanic Lake Danao as the main event. This is a fairly major excursion, which also includes a searching for dugongs, jungle treks and a boat trip along the world’s longest underground river. Hong Kong travellers are welcome to join by booking online and liaising with the organisers in the Philippines. At 2,450 pounds (HK$36,000) excluding airfares, the price is on the high side, but not excessive for an 18-day package with meals, accommodation and substantial activities. Also worth noting is that only eight spaces are available this and other trips. Later expeditions – none of which will ever be repeated – include a river safari in Tanzania, rafting in Madagascar, and the chance to summit an unclimbed peak in Greenland (pictured). For further details, reservations and a full Palawan itinerary, visit www.pioneerexpeditions.com.