Kenji Shibata has been active in Japan since 1992. After studying with Studio Gibb and at renowned visual arts school in Osaka, Kenji Shibata quickly moved on to solo exhibitions. This brilliant artist often integrates his love of technology into his love of art, most notably with his series of hyper realistic motorcycle paintings. After a number of solo exhibitions, Kenji Shibata even founded his own electronics company, Shibata Electronics, which now has several offices around the world.

His most recent exhibition at Tachibana Gallery, aptly named “Locked in the Ether,” presents yet another unique twist on Kenji Shibata’s chosen medium. Combining photography and deliberately frozen flowers, the artist produces images vibrant, ethereal, and distinct enough to be mistaken for paintings.

Playing with the idea of being frozen in time, Kenji Shibata froze flowers in full bloom – in the prime of their lives – in order to create this thought provoking, mesmerizing series. As the flowers began to thaw out, Kenji Shibata then photographed them in various stages of disrepair.

Such a sharp use of everyday items creates a truly engaging series of photographs that has us pondering life, death, and the beguiling nature of eternal youth. What do these gorgeous photos suggest for you?

Check out his website for more of his art!

Featured photo credit: Kenji Shibata via shibatakenji.com

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When I was a child, my grandmother used to keep a small, pocket-sized kaleidoscope in the car to keep my brother and I quiet and distracted whilst she drove. These old kaleidoscopes were created using mirrors inside a cylinder with loose coloured objects such as beads. These days, there are numerous ways to create kaleidoscopes. Youtuber Jong Chool Do displays a particularly creative on in this video! Using a camera hooked up to a television, an infinite kaleidoscope is created with endless possibilities and images available to the user! If you have the equipment needed, you can even try this yourself.

Featured photo credit: Recycled Plactic Kaleidoscope via flickr.com

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Although CDs may be obsolete when it comes to how you listen to music, there is currently a decor revolution occurring that uses old CDs to create beautiful, unique pieces of art around your home. If you’ve got dozens of CDs stored away in your house and you’re not sure what to do with them, why not try some of these great DIY projects! From bird baths to christmas decorations, and lamps to jewellery there’s a CD design here for you:

1. Make a beautiful bird bath.

2. Turn your old, bland boots into shiny shoes.

3. Nailed it: driveway reflector.

4. Infinity guitar picks.

5. Make a trippy lamp.

6. Easy ice scraper.

7. A candle holder.

9. Fridge decor.

10. Shiny storage.

11. A mosaic table.

12. Colourful coasters.

13. A CD clock.

14. Powerful plant pot.

15. Wall art.

16. A mirror.

17. DIY fashionable collar.

18. CD Clutch.

19. Jazz up your guitar.

20. Bracelets.

21. Statement necklaces.

22. Tissue C-Dispenser.

23. Cap to the future.

24. Christmas decorations.

Featured photo credit: Everyone Deserves Music via flickr.com

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Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing. – Camille Pissarro

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If you have an Android phone or tablet, you unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your point of view) do not have access to something like the stock “Podcasts” app that comes packaged with new Apple devices.

Don’t let that discourage you though, as you still have access to plenty of options thanks to the amazing selection of apps available on the Google Play Store. Let’s take a look at a few of the best options below.

1. Doggcatcher

One of the original podcast apps on Android, Doggcatcher has built up quite a following over the years.

While its interface is perhaps a bit behind the times compared to its current competition, it remains a feature-packed app, with the ability to customize playback speed and auto download/delete episodes of your favorite podcasts.

If you happen to own a Chromcast stick, this app will work with it, meaning you will be able to stream your favorite podcast to your TV/entertainment system. It costs $2.99, which, while expensive for an app, is pretty cheap in the grand scheme of things.

2. Beyondpod

Beyondpod mixes a brilliant user interface with a vast selection of podcasts to choose from, enough that even the most eclectic of you should be able to find what you are looking for.

Like Doggcatcher, it supports Chromecast. It can also sync across multiple devices, and update your favorite podcasts automatically.

You can purchase Beyondpod for $6.99, which is fairly pricy. That said, there is a 7 day free trial, so you can test it out and see if you like it before buying.

3. Podcast Republic

Podcast Republic’s claim to fame is that it allows you to search iTunes’ podcast collection, meaning all of you iPhone to Android transplants can finally find all of your favorite shows on your new device.

Like other podcast apps, it syncs across devices and can update automatically in the background. It also is capable of offline playback.

Best of all, Podcast Republic is supported by ads, and thus is completely free!

4. Player FM

The standout feature of Player FM is probably its looks — it adheres to all of Google’s new design motifs.

Like the other apps here, Player FM supports Chromecast and all of the basic features you’d expect out of a podcast app, like speed control and offline support. Beyond that, it also supports smartwatches, which could be a significant factor in your decision making process.

Player FM is entirely free, at least to a point. You can subscribe to up to twenty shows on the house. There’s a “Gold” version of the app that will be released in the future, and it will allow for unlimited podcast subscriptions.

5. Pocket Casts

Winner of the Google Play Editor’s Choice award for March 2014, Pocket Casts is an essential app for most Android users.

It supports Chromecast, variable speed playback, tablet support, and sharing with your friends.

Unlike some other podcast apps, Pocket Casts give you a bit more control. This comes mostly in the form of its associated widget, which lets you manage basic functions of the app from your homescreen.

Additionally, Pocket Casts is available on iOS devices as well, meaning you can sync your podcasts on your Android phone with your iPad, or on your Android tablet with your iPhone.

Like some cloud music apps (e.g. Amazon Prime Music, Spotify, and Beats Music), Pocket Casts comes equipped with discovery features that allow you to easily search for podcasts you might be interested in.

Certainly, other podcast apps have similar features, but Pocket Casts probably delivers them in most streamlined and easy-to-use fashion.

At $3.99 Pocket Casts is an expensive app, but based on the reviews I have read, most users believe it to be worth every penny.

Conclusions

All in all, you really cannot go wrong with any of these apps. There are plenty of options to choose from, and at a certain point, it really becomes all about user preference. I would suggest trying the free options (or Beyondpod’s trial), and see if you like those first. If they do not suit your needs, then go after the paid options. Either way, with so many quality podcast apps out there, you are bound to find the right one for you sooner rather than later.

Featured photo credit: Android/ JD Hancock via flickr.com

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Success is such a lucrative term. Everyone dreams of it. Many have achieved it, while many more never do. What is success?

True success is not an actual “…termination of attempts…”, nor does it necessarily involve a monetary outcome. Far more success , like stated on UrbanDictionary.com, “...it simply means to follow through…success is a journey not a destination.” My definition of success is the sum of an infinite amount of tasks and failures performed while moving towards a specific direction in life. Success is a never-ending process. If you get to point B and stop, you never see what lies ahead at point C, D, and E.

Truly successful people maintain certain habits that keep them on a productive path. They never stop at any point along the way. Their goals evolve and grow. Just as mankind has evolved and adapted, your personal definition of success (or goal) should too. Successful people never strive for perfection, they strive to grow their knowledge and continue to improve their skills.

In order to be a success, one must change their habits. What are the differences between you right now and people who maintain success? Here are 8 differences between you and them:

1. Successful people never stop learning.

Think about how much technology has changed and evolved over the years. Your knowledge of a particular subject may be complete and up-to-date today, but tomorrow someone else may have discovered a new way to do it, a better way to do it, or something no one knew about it. To maintain success in a certain area, you have to continually research, study, learn, and experiment on that particular subject. Successful people have a hunger for learning and obtaining knowledge.

Many unsuccessful people equate learning with school – which is incorrect. Learning can be obtained from life experiences, researching on your own, shadowing a mentor, on-the-job training, running experiments, relationships, reading, and so on. Try to learn something new everyday.

2. Successful people set specific life goals

Successful individuals set out on predetermined paths. They know what they want to gain, where they intend on going, and they have their course drawn out. They have set short-term and long-term goals for themselves. Successful people write down their goals, and organize their journey by making to-do lists. Everyday they wake up with a purpose. No time is wasted. Nothing can distract them. Successful people pre-plan their days and will get everything they set out to do done.

Others tend to be more laid back and procrastinate. If you want to be successful, you cannot have a nonchalant attitude. Usually when you have defined your goals, and you are passionate about it, it’s easy to get things done. The reason is that your goal is something you truly desire, and you know the everyday tasks you choose to complete will take you closer to achieving it. Make you goal something you absolutely have to do to ensure a happy life, and the hard work will not be so hard.

3. Successful people embrace difficulties

Failures, problems, obstacles- whatever synonym you call them, successful people face difficulties head on. Those who are successful, are considered problem solvers. They enjoy finding solutions for life’s challenges. Think about famous people who you consider “go-to” people in different fields. Ask yourself, “Who would I want advice from?”

Here’s a few from my list:

• Psychology – Dr. Phil
• Business – Richard Branson
• Technology – Steve Jobs
• Branding/Celebrity – Oprah Whinfrey
• Cooking – Rachael Ray
• Comedy – Steve Harvey
• Crafting – Martha Stewart

These celebrities may not be first on your list, but you have definitely heard of them and know exactly why they are famous. They are considered experts in their particular realms. These people continually provide solutions for everyday challenges and lead by example.

Let’s not get these highly successful celebrities confused with what success looks like. You do not need to make it to their level to be considered successful. All I am saying is follow their example. If you work as hard as they have, push past the challenges in your life as they have, and never quit, you too will successfully conquer your dreams and be known on some level in your field, as a problem solver.

4. Successful people remain humble

People who are highly successful do not take their success for granted. They know it was not luck that brought them to success. These people never forget where they began and the hard work they undertook to achieve it. Yes, you may see successful people self promoting, but that is all part of the marketing game. Confidence envelops success, not imperiousness.

Others tend to boast and brag about their accomplishments. I am not referring to the level of triumph as the people I listed above. Those who are not successful tend to gasconade about simple everyday, expected, feats. You do not gain respect from anyone with conceit. If the desired result of your effort happens, make sure you exude assurance with your work, but not by gloating afterwards. Conceit shows dubious tendencies, while confidence shows unwavering expertism.

5. Successful people support others

Those who have achieved success, have not done so by caching their knowledge. They are not egocentric. They believe that the more successful people there are, the better the world will be. They volunteer to help those less fortunate. Greed is not a motivating factor for them. They do not think in terms of parsimony, they encompass a yearning to bestow what they have and know to others. Donating their time, skills, wealth, and knowledge to others also helps them remain modest.

Others lust over their prosperity in an autocratic manner. They trove their abilities to hinder others from acquiring success. They are prone to step on others to advance in life. They are consumed with only their quality of life. Avarice will impede success. Human beings are programmed with a survival of the fittest mentality. You must fight this and realize you have to give, in order to receive.

6. Successful people control their thoughts and emotions

Those who are successful, have always sustained a positive outlook despite their circumstances. They become conscious of self calamitous thoughts and habits. The successful people overcome debilitating emotional trauma from the past, and live for today.

Unsuccessful people live in the past. They subconsciously replay emotional trauma they have endeared in current life situations. You have to realize that your outer being reflects your inner state. You must find peace within by forgiving those who have caused you pain, and moving on with your life.

7.  Successful people have a balanced life

Those who are successful cherish their time spent with loved ones. They know these people support them and love them no matter what. They know there must be a balance between work and personal time to be happy and peaceful.

Others who are not successful, or those trying to figure out how to be, tend to focus too much time on one or the other. If you have too much personal time, you are not working hard enough to become successful. If you work too much, you will be unhappy and stressed, which will affect your work life. There must be a balance between the two. Find your balance.

8. Successful people avoid negative energy

Successful people live life with a positive attitude. Unfortunate situations happen to everyone, but they always find the silver lining. They choose who they let into their life wisely. Those who do not support them, who use them, who have a negative attitude, who try to knock them down, and who are envious of them, are not welcomed.

Others find it challenging to let go of negative relationships. This may be because of their low self esteem. This may be the result of fear of being companionless. You must exude confidence and confront your aversions to find success in life.

I am not pointing out these eight differences between successful people and you in order to dismay you. I am simply showing you eight feasible adjustments you can make to transform your life. The biggest step you will take to accomplish these changes is simply taking action and making the effort. You can do it!

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Everyday conversation is essential to several aspects of life such as maintaining relationships (business and personal), building trust and credibility and creating a pleasurable experience for yourself and others. It comes as no surprise therefore that conversation skills are one of the most basic skills needed to function well in everyday society. One of the most important conversation skills for you to have is the ability to avoid using offensive or hurtful language. This becomes especially difficult when you are not aware that the words you use are actually considered hurtful. Slang words and colloquialisms commonly used by the younger generation can also be unknowingly offensive. To assist with this confusion, here are a few common words or phrases which you may or may not know are actually hurtful.

1.) “Gay”

This word doesn’t mean ‘happy’ anymore. It is more renowned as a word synonymous with homosexuals. In a society where it is already difficult enough for these people to fit in, it doesn’t help when the word ‘gay’ is now used to describe a stupid or unfortunate situation. Everyday we can hear people say: “I hate this museum, it’s so gay.” When used in the wrong circumstance, ‘gay’ can be incredibly offensive especially around homosexuals. They probably don’t appreciate hearing that they are being used to describe something boring or underwhelming.

2.) “Retarded”

This word is commonly used to describe a situation that is crazy or doesn’t make sense, e.g.: “That exam was so retarded.” It is easy to forget that there are mentally challenged people out there. Mentally retarded people and their loved ones would certainly not appreciate hearing themselves compared to something that is considered crazy or unintelligible. These people struggle through life and out of respect, the ‘R’ word is best kept out of your everyday vocabulary.

3.) “It was just a joke”

If a person has trouble tolerating whatever you just said, chances are they won’t believe you say you weren’t serious. No matter how close you are as friends or family, if you make an offensive comment and expect them to take it as a joke, it might be a little to much to ask. Although you may have had good intentions, it always pays to be careful about what you say out loud, especially if you know the person is a little bit sensitive.

4.) “Never mind, you don’t get it”

Nobody likes being left out of the loop, and used in the wrong context, this can make it sound like you left the person out on purpose. Although you may have only meant for it to be a quick dismissal of a subject, it could come off as rude and flippant, which destroys relationships rather than maintains them. Next time try providing an explanation, no matter how brief.

5.) “This makes me want to kill myself”

You probably only meant it as a figure of speech, however in certain situations, for example, around a person who has experienced the loss of a loved one through suicide, it can create a very awkward situation. Since you never really know these details about every person you happen to talk to, it might be best to avoid using this phrase altogether.

6.) “I feel so bipolar today”

Being bipolar isn’t as simple as having a tiny mood swing throughout a day. Mental disorders are stressful and complicated, way beyond the understanding of a person without a mental disability. Certain people, perhaps with bipolar loved ones can be easily offended by your choice of using the word. Without a thorough understanding of the term, it might be worth considering another term to describe your moods on a crazy day.

7.) “You’re adopted”

There should be no good reason to use this phrase in conversation with someone obviously not adopted. It becomes an issue when you use the phrase in inappropriate situations. For example: “You are nothing like your siblings. It’s like you’re adopted or something.” A person with a good sense of humor probably wouldn’t mind too much, however some people are less humorous and would potentially be offended at this statement. These kinds of assumptions, regardless of intention, can be dangerous in conversation.

8.) “You_____like a girl”

Girls around the word, especially feminists, find this statement incredibly  insulting. Statements such as: “You walk like a girl” are usually said with intentions to insult. While it can be argued that it was meant as a joke, especially towards a very good friend or family member, it can also be rude if used in the wrong situation with the wrong crowd.

9.) “Black”

It is controversial, however while you may have only intended to point out the color of their skin, some people are sensitive about the use of the word. They may feel as though it marginalizes them into a minority and it either offend them or makes the, uncomfortable.

Rather than using the word ‘black’, it might be more practical to label them by ethnicity instead, for example, African American.

10.) “Nigga”

This word becomes problematic in modern times where the term ‘nigga’ is now used almost an endearment to a person you are close to. The word is renowned in popular music for example in the song My Nigga by YG. However looking at the racist origins or the word ‘Nigger’, from which it was developed, it comes as no surprise that it remains offensive to a lot of people. It would be wise to remain cautious about using the word around people you aren’t extremely familiar with, regardless of the context.

11.) “Spastic”

This word is often used in the context of something weird or dysfunctional, for example: “The electricity has been going really spastic today.” While it seems to be an appropriate way to describe the unusual behavior of electricity that day, it may not be amusing to those who find spasms to be a sensitive topic. Similarly to a few of the other words on this list, it may be best not to use words which you don’t have a thorough understanding with.

12.) “Midget”

It is important to note that some people can be sensitive about height, and referring to someone as a ‘midget’ may sound like you are marginalizing them and taking it as a negative thing, Without intent to insult, it is understandable that you may have been using this term to describe short people your whole life. However it might be a good idea to find a word which sounds a bit less offensive towards people lacking in height.

13.) “Nazi”

Granted that you well acquainted with the concept of Nazi Germany, you should know that the usage of this word has changed slightly over the years. ‘Nazi’ is often used to describe a person who is strict, with a very rigid personality. It is easy to understand that using this word to describe someone can be incredibly offensive. Next time, it might be better to call them ‘rigid’ rather than comparing them to a rather controversial race of people.

14.) “Take a chill pill”

When a person is stressed, this is possibly the worst thing to say to them in a difficult situation. To them it could imply that you expect them to easily get over their problems and makes you sound like they don’t matter. This can be intended to be used in a joking manner, however in the wrong situation it can actually be really hurtful toward a person.

15.) “I don’t care”

This is a very common phrase for someone to say in a variety of situations, and it is obvious that it can easily offend. It is never nice to say that you don’t care about something or someone, even in a joking manner. To those who are a bit more sensitive. they might take your words more seriously than you think. Altogether, it is best to assume that this phrase is offensive in most situations.

16.) “You’re just confused”

Even if you are right, it is deeply offensive if you make them sound stupid. More often than not you might think you know the whole story in a particular situation, but chances are, you don’t. Be polite to a person in a situation of crisis. It might help maintain your relationship if you offer your support rather than dismissing their situation.

17.) “What’s the point?”

Although you may have asked this from a viewpoint of curiosity, it is easy for this statement to sound offensive. Depending on the sensitivity or the person and the circumstance, you might sound like you are dismissing their explanation before they even try explaining. It sounds rude and there are many more polite ways to ask about the purpose of an action.

18.) “You’re too uptight”

People have certain passions and motives, and to imply they are ‘too uptight’ can be extremely hurtful. If they feel strongly about something and you don’t understand why, it might still be better to ask them why rather than unintentionally suggest that it doesn’t matter.

19.) “Have you been living under a rock?”

This is a very popular expression used with people who are less aware of the world around them than most. Keep in mind that they are probably not aware of this fact and implying that they are ignorant, even in a joking manner can come across are offensive. Some people are more attuned to their surroundings than most, however it is no reason to criticize those who are less worldly than you.

20.) “You’re not that stupid”

Although this is usually meant as a compliment, certain situations can turn it into an insult instead. For example, if someone close to you wants to do something you know is harmful, you will be inclined to make a comment along the lines of: “Don’t do it, you’re not that stupid.” At this stage, it can be taken as offensive, since it implies that they aren’t smart enough to make their own decisions. Overall, this phrase might do more harm than good in most situations.

Featured photo credit: Hurtful words via google.com.au

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Accept what is, let go of what was, and have faith in what will be.

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Hikers brave the harshest climates, the highest peaks and most forbidding terrains to experience the Earth like no others possible could. Whether they are traversing canyons, climbing mountains or crossing moors, hikers know what it is to have adventure.

Below are 30 fantastic hiking trails that will challenge, beguile and enthuse even the most novice hikers!

1. The Narrows, USA

Carved throughout millennia by the Virgin River, The Narrows in Zion National Park provide breathtaking scenery throughout it’s 26km (16 miles). More than half of this hike takes place in the river, including some areas in which you may need to swim, but it can be completed in just one day and you can dry off at one of the twelve camping grounds throughout the park.

How to get there: This hike through the Virgin River actually starts at The Chamberlain Ranch found about 20 miles from Zion National Park’s East Entrance. For detailed directions and maps, download Zion Adventure’s brochure.

2. Pays Dogon, Mali

Without a doubt, Pays Dogon is one of Africa’s most scenic places which is why so many hikers choose to hike through the breathtaking landscape, which can take up to ten days. Known as ‘the land of the Dogon people’ hikers visit ancient cliff dwellings and Dogon villages as they traverse the peeks.

How to get there: To get anywhere in Dogon Country, it is essential that you hire a driver or a car, which you will then have to drive to the one of the hiking start villages Kani-Kombolé, Djiguibombo, Endé, Dourou or Sanga. For a better idea of Dogon Country, check out this interactive map.

3. The Haute Route, France & Switzerland

Starting in Chamonix, France and ending in Zermatt, Switzerland visitors to The Haute Route will experience the very best areas of The Alps available to hikers. Although there are varying routes between summer and winter, either hike will take around two weeks to complete and is only for the fitter hikers among us.

How to get there: Book a hotel in or near Chamonix, France and ensure you are booked on a trip with a guide who will lead the hike. Your guide, and possibly your hotel as well, will provide you with all the extra information you will need.

4. GR20, France

Remaining in France, the GR20 trail in Corsica is a legendary hike spanning 168km (104 miles). Built in 1972, this trek will direct you through Calenzana, Balagne and ends in Conca, north of Porto Vecchio. On your way you can expect rickety bridges, mountains, ice, rivers, forests, bogs and an experience like no other.

How to get there: Calenzana is situated near Calvi, which is easy to travel to from the Saint Catherine airport or local ferries. To travel from Calvi to Calenzana simply take a bus!

5. Inca Trail, Peru

At 33km (20 miles) this trail may seem tame in comparison to those listed above, but you can’t blame to ancient Incas for not meeting our modern day hiking demands. On this trek you will walk through The Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu an ancient wonder of the world like no other on Earth.

How to get there: Access to the Inca Trail is strictly controlled so it is essential that you book with a tour guide months in advance. When the time comes for you to travel to Peru, fly to Cuzco and then catch a train to either Aguas Calientes, the prime access point to Machu Picchu where many choose to stay overnight or go straight to Ollantaytambo in The Sacred Valley. Your tour guide will most likely be in contact with your throughout your travels and ensure you find the actual trail.

6. Everest Base Camp, Nepal

The first of our intense mountain climbs, Nepal’s Everest Base Camp reaches dizzying heights of 5,545m (18,193ft) at Kala Pattar and takes three weeks to complete. Accompanied by Sherpa people of the Solu Khumbu you will be expected to traverse valleys and mountains in order to bask in the unique and beautiful scenery.

How to get there: If you are planning to begin your trek from Nepal, fly from Kathmandu to Lukla Airport which is close to Sagarmatha National Park. If you have booked a guide, they will most likely accompany you from the airport.

7. Indian Himalayas, India

Far less popular than The Alps or Everest, The Indian Himalayas’ trail in Himachal Pradesh is a hike for true adventurers. This remote trek will see you travel for 24 days from Spiti to Ladakh, teetering on cliff edges and reaching dizzying heights.

How to get there: There are 12 districts in Himachal Pradesh, and you are aiming for Spiti in Lahaul and Spiti. To get there most people enter through Manali, which you can reach via plane from Delhi or train, towards Rohtang Pass using the eastbound rounds that lead to Kaza. There are bus services that start in Manali, or you can drive which will take about eight to ten hours.

8. Overland Track, Australia

Situated in Tasmania, The Overland Track is 80km (50 miles) long and takes about six days to complete. Whilst trekking between Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair – Australia’s deepest natural freshwater lake – you will see mountains, lakes, moors, forests, waterfalls and Mt Ossa.

How to get there: By the far the easiest to get to so far, all you need to do is get to the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre where buses will transport you to the start of the track. Both Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair are within up to four hours travelling distance from many main towns like Davenport, Burnie and Launceston.

9. Routeburn Track, New Zealand

On New Zealand’s South Island there is the far less demanding Routeburn Track, which stretches over 32km (20 miles) and takes just three days to complete. Found at foot of The Southern Alps, the most difficult element of this hike will be getting a spot on the team as numbers are extremely limited.

How to get there: Many hikers choose to depart from Queenstown and begin the walk from the Routeburn Shelter. Queenstown is accessible via plane, bus and car.

10. Baltoro Glacier & K2, Pakistan

You may have heard of the world’s second-highest mountain K2 previously, but did you know you can actually hike along it’s icy foundations and climb it’s peak? This 15 day hike will take you through and over Paiju (6,610m, 21,686ft), Uli Biaho (6,417m, 21,053ft), Great Trango Tower (6,286m, 20,623ft) and finally K2 (8,611m, 28,251ft).

How to get there: As with most things in Pakistan, you must begin in Islamabad. It is recommended that hikers stay in Envoy, Shalimar or Royal Inn but of course the ultimate choice is up to you.

You will then fly or drive to Skardu, where you will be driven in a Jeep to Askolie, the last village on route, where your trek will finally begin.

11. Tongariro Northern Circuit, New Zealand

Also known as ‘The New Zealand Great Walk‘, this trek takes place on the northern island of New Zealand and will take you four days to complete the 49km (31 miles) circuit around Mount Ngauruhoe.

How to get there: Many people choose to begin from the village of Whakapapa where the Department of Conservation asks that you leave your vehicle and instead take a $15 shuttle. There is an air field at the base of Whakapapa, which you can fly into from Aukland.

12. Fitz Roy Trek, Argentina

Mount Fitz Roy can be concurred using various routes, with the average hike measuring around 64km (40 miles). Each route ensures glorious views of Patagonia that cannot be experienced unless you take this trip on Fitz!

How to get there: There are numerous treks that you can partake in here, so before you set off make sure you’ve decided on a route. You will need to travel to El Chalten, the gateway to Mt. Fitz Roy, which is reachable by bus from either El Calafate or San Carlos de Bariloche.

You can reach either of these places by plane, however El Calafate is by far the easiest of the two.

13. Cinque Terre, Italy

At just 12km (7.5 miles), this trek is more like taking a walk along the stunning Western Italian Coast. You will traverse this beautiful scenery and travel through five Italian towns, so if you’re looking to experience some extraordinary culture, this is the hike for you.

How to get there: You can reach Cinque Terre via plane, train or car but you will have to walk or catch a train to the first village Corniglia to begin your trek.

14. Santa Cruz Trek, Peru

Out shined only by the Inca Trail, The Santa Cruz Trek is one of Peru’s most popular walks. Over four days you can expect to see rivers, lakes and mountains that would otherwise go unseen by human eyes.

How to get there: It is best to hire a guide for this trek as travelling independently can limit your experience. As this trek begins in Huaraz, which is situated in Cordillera Blanca’s Huascarán National Park, you will need to take a coach from Lima (Movil Tours, Ormeño, Cruz del Sur and CIAL are the most frequently used companies).

15. Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile

Ten days, 83km (52 miles) and immense scenery: that’s what you can expect from Chile’s number one hiking destination. Traverse the Torres del Paine mountain range and experience the real wonder of the South American continent.

How to get there: Having flown into El Calafate, you must take a six hour bus journey to the town of Puerto Natales to catch another two hour bus to the Torres Del Paine National Park. There will be many guides available to take you on this hike at the National Park, or you can book in advance.

16. Desert Trek to Petra, Jordan

High up on bucket lists around the globe, The Kingdom of Petra is a destination most of us would like to see. But the real question is: how are you planning to get there? Do you take the boring, air-conditioned coach or the awesome 7 day, 80km (50 miles) hike across the desert? Tough decision.

How to get there: First of all you must fly to Amman,  Jordan where you will catch a bus to Madaba where you will meet your tour group. You will be escorted via coach to Dana where your hike will begin.

17. Kungsleden, Sweden

Otherwise known as ‘The King’s Trail‘, this hike spans an incredible 434km (270 miles) of untouched European country, and in the winter it becomes a ski trail.

How to get there: To begin this hike you must first reach Abisko, which is about 25 hours from Malmo and 13 hours from Stockholm. There are also daily trains from both Lulea and Gallivare, which are both reachable by air.

18. West Coast Trail, Canada

Situated on Vancouver Island, this 75km (47 miles) long trail along the southwestern coast was originally carved in 1907 to help locals save shipwreck survivors. Now it’s primary use is allowing hikers to experience the real, coastal wilderness of Canada.

How to get there: You can begin The West Cost Trail from many starting points, easiest of which is Pacheena Bay Trailhead, which can be reached by plane and ferry.

19. Sarek National Park, Sweden

Famous for it’s 1,220 square kilometres (760 square miles) of untouched terrain, Sweden’s Sarek National Park is the perfect place to go hiking and exploring at your own pace and using your own route.

How to get there: Situated in the extreme north of Sweden, Sarek National Park actually shares a border with Kungsleden and can be reached using a similar route.

20. Muliwai Trail, Hawaii

Regarded as the most rigorous hike in Hawaii, the 28km (18 miles) Muliwai trail will see you pass through the Waipi’o and Waimanu Valleys, as well as a black sand beach.

How to get there: To begin this trek you will need to reach the city of Honoka’a which is relatively close to Hilo International Airport. From the airport you can catch a bus or rent a car to reach Honoka’a, which will take just over one hour.

21. Croagh Patrick, Ireland

At just 4km (3 miles), this Irish hike is an easy walk for beginners who want to see the beauty of the world that can only be experienced through hiking, but don’t want to die in the process. Croagh Patrick should take you about four and a half hours, and offers incredible views of beautiful Ireland.

How to get there: Croagh Patrick can be found in County Mayo’s Westport, which is very easy to travel to by catching a train from Dublin.

22. Grindelwald, Switzerland

Although it’s largely considered as a tourist destination, Grindelwald actually offers prime hiking for beginners! There are around 290 km (180 miles) of trails that you can pick and choose from, some lasting a day and others a week, so this is the perfect destination for some light adventure.

How to get there: Many travellers simply catch a train or drive from Interlaken which accessible through numerous main Swiss cities including Zurich and Geneva, although in summer you can even hike there.

23. Appalachian Trail, USA

Spanning 3540km (2,200 miles) and 14 states, the Appalachian hike will truly test your trekking skills like no other American trail. If you’re looking to up your game significantly then this is the trek for you. The great part though, is that you can brave the entire length of the trail or choose chunks to explore more easily.

How to get there: The majority of visitors arrive via car as there are numerous, cast parking lots. If you wish to trek from North to South you’ll want to head for Baxter State Park.

24. Zillertal Alps, Austria

As you may imagine, the Austrian Alps offer numerous hiking trails for everyone and at varying levels of expertise. Arguably the most popular of the Austrian Alp walks is the Berliner Höhenweg, which should take you about seven days to complete.

How to get there: If you are planning to traverse the Berliner Höhenweg, you will need to get to Innsburg which is easy to get to via train, plane or car.

25. North Drakensberg Traverse, South Africa

Regarded by many enthusiastic hikers, explorers and survivalists as one of the best hiking trails on Earth, this  64km (40 miles) walk sits between The Kingdom of Lesotho and South Africa, offering unique views of the African landscape.

How to get there: Most people begin their trek at The Sentinel and work their way south because this is the easiest place to get to. You can travel by car along the N3 highway, fly into Durban Airport and catch the Baz Bus.

26. Cape Wrath Trail, Scotland

Perhaps the hardest trek the United Kingdom has to offer, the hiking trail across Cape Wrath will take even an experienced hiker twenty days to complete as it spans 321km (200 miles).

How to get there: Beginning at Fort William, this trail is quite easy to get to using coach services or trains available from numerous cities including Glasgow and Edinburgh.

27. Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

Filled with more hiking paths than roads, The Simien Mountains National Park has a vast array of hiking trails available for all levels of hikers.

How to get there: Located in the Semien (North) Gondar Zone of the Amhara Region, The Semien Mountains are accessible via air or their a vast number of bus routes from all over Ethiopia,  including Addis Ababa or Bahir Dar.

28. Polar Route, Greenland

Otherwise referred to as The Arctic Circle Trail, this 160km (100 miles) long hike will take you from Kangerlussuaq to one of the most remote places of Earth Sisimiut via the world’s second largest glacier.

How to get there: As you may imagine, The Polar Route is a little tricky to reach. However, Kangerlussuaq Airport can be reached by planes scheduled by Air Greenland, which usually depart from New York.

29. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii

Although it is only 35km (22 miles) long, this trail along the Na Pali Coast in Kaua’i has been known to be as dangerous as it is spectacular. So, book with care!

How to get there: The island of Kaua’i can be reached via plane and the starting point Ke’e Beach is easily reached on foot, using public transport or by taxi.

30. Cordillera Apolobamba, Bolivia

Rarely braved and barely conquered, the Cordillera Apolobamba is 104km (65 miles) long and takes around five days to complete. Situated close to the Peruvian border, this Bolivian masterpiece offers spectacular views and a unique experience.

How to get there: Bolivia’s capital city La Paz is accessible through many airports, from here you can arrange transport to Pelechuco which is situated right in the centre of the Cordillera Apolobamba mountain range.

Featured photo credit: Beamer Trail via flickr.com

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