Hiking in the Himalayas Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I learned more hiking through the Himalayas than I did any quarter at college. The learning experience was hands on and you become friends with your professors. I hesitate to rate the academic rigor high because I don't want people to think that the course work is overwhelming. It isn't. The projects and tests supplement the learning experience, they don't detract from it.

On-site administration of your program

The office at Wildlands was extremely helpful before I left and I have ordered my transcripts without a problem. You are with people from Wildlands for the entire program and get to know them quite well. The instructors are knowledgeable not only about the academic side of things, but logistics as well.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I knew we would be sleeping in tents so that was what I was prepared for. I wasn't prepared for the astounding beauty of the places we camped. You can try to imagine it, but it isn't quite the same as actually waking up, stepping outside your tent, and looking at towering mountains in the early morning light.

If you like Indian food, you're in for a treat. I was pleasantly surprised that we ate like kings the entire time (keep in mind this is India, so the budget goes farther there than say, Australia).

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We did a cultural project which was a cool way to learn more about a specific aspect of the culture and compare it in different places. Because you are hiking, you don't become immersed in the culture like you would in a normal exchange. However, do expect to party with the locals and have some awesome conversations at the villages you stop at along the way.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Because of the nature of the program, you will be out of reach of immediate medical assistance at times. However, one of the instructers was well trained in backpacking first aid and as long as you don't fall off a cliff, you should be just fine.

There were some instances where we hiked over relatively tricky terrain and it could have been considered dangerous. Our guides were very experienced though, and were along side with anyone that was having trouble. As far as the accommodations and feeling safe, I felt entirely comfortable while I was on the program. I traveled in India afterword and did so alone for awhile. As a woman traveling alone in India, I would advise not going out without a guy (either a fellow traveler that you meet in a hostel or someone you have known for a while) after dark. Another woman is good, but you may still get bothered. If you find a guy from Germany in your hostel, grab him to go out to dinner. I found I always felt safer when I did that.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

I lived off of 30 cent veggie burgers for awhile but you can get a five star restaurant dinner for $20. It was great.

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• Other

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• Americans

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• Close friendships formed
• Hands on learning
• Hiking in beauty

• I honestly can't think of anything...

The Avid Adventurer