My Alaska fishing guide told me a fact that is common knowledge to many, but that had eluded me up to that point: Alaska is so large that if it were divided into two equal parts, Texas would have the rare honor of being the third largest state in the country.

It truly is the last frontier out there, although the native Alaskans will grimace when you say such a thing to their faces.

Along with its largeness, and its remoteness, Alaska is wild and sparsely populated.  This is what makes Alaska fishing and hunting so attractive to some many people.

Alaska fishing lodges are some of the most isolated in the world, and along with that have some of the best fishing.  Most Alaska fishing guides are knowledgeable and you need to be knowledgeable to survive in such a brutal and isolated environment.

Our Alaska fishing guide was a gruff old fellow.  He had not set out to be an Alaska fishing guide originally, but then again few do.  Generally, your Alaska fishing guide will fit into one of two types.

Either he is some young adventurer who’s traveled all over the world, and found Alaska to be the only place harsh enough, isolated enough, and beautiful enough for him to finally settle in, or he is a native.  It is native to Alaska, he is likely to be a man of few words; strong and independent, and with a quiet but hilarious sense of humor.  Our Alaskan fishing guide was of the former type.

Mike was the name of the Alaska fishing guide, a plain name for a man who was anything but plain.  Before settling into his current role as an Alaska fishing guide he had been, in no particular order, a Mountaineer, a translator, and an attache to several American consulates.  He even spent some time as a firefighter.

But of all these jobs, he said, his job as an Alaska fishing guide suited him to a tee.  You get to spend all of his time in the great outdoors, showing some of the most beautiful, pristine, and undisturbed wilderness in the world to travelers from all over who loves nature almost as much as he did.  Although his job as an Alaska fishing guide meant that he had a tough life, it seemed to be worth it for him.

Some people want to spend their vacation relaxing on a beach, their only exercise involving applying more sun tan lotion. However, others like to be more adventurous and pursue their hobbies or try out something new to get the adrenaline pumping. Costa Rica has become a popular destination of late and a Costa Rica adventure holiday is designed for those who thrive on excitement.

There are lots of companies that supply qualified guides and equipment for outdoor activities in this region. Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking are particularly popular here, given the number of white water rivers and waterfalls. The scenery is spectacular as participants wind their way through miles of rainforest. The sport of Canyoning is also catered for. Thick jungle and rivers strewn with boulders make challenging terrain and instructors will teach how to negotiate with ropes and harnesses.

Some wonderful natural landmarks are only accessible on horseback and a Costa Rica adventure is ideal for horseback riders to journey through forest, mountain trails and across jungle rivers. Nature lovers and bird watchers will also appreciate this area. Expert naturalist guides take groups through isolated regions to spot tree frogs, lizards, snakes, plants, caymans and exotic birds.

It’s also possible to take to the skies in hot air balloons, an opportunity to see the monkeys and birds in the canopy of trees. The balloon will travel over rainforest and mountain villages with passengers in a traditional wicker basket. The highlight of any trip on a Costa Rica adventure is to go over the Arenal Volcano, an active volcano and so the pilot will not get too close!

If mountain bikers like it tough, then this is the place to come. Near vertical 4×4 mountain tracks will test even the most experienced. However, there are less challenging trails too. Bikers will be taken through jungle, rivers and beaches. Equipment will include helmets, gloves, water bottles and energy bars. As well as the guides, there is a support vehicle, 2-way radios and first aid kits.

4×4 vehicle trips are also an exciting prospect. Most rural roads are made from mud or dirt. It’s worth the effort because these vehicles can access areas that smaller cars can’t. Drivers will be rewarded with some terrific scenery and the opportunity to see wildlife on their Costa Rica adventure.

Sea Kayaking is also popular as the country is bordered by two seas. Kayakers go through estuaries, canals and the pleasantly warm Caribbean. The trip will comprise of everything from gentle paddling to wilder stretches of water.