Elegant Camping- Sleeping Out in Style
For those who enjoy getting back to nature- but aren’t satisfied with pitching a pup tent and spending a fitful night in a sleeping bag- “elegant camping” was made for you. Now available at resorts across the globe, just imagine enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature from the depths of a luxury safari hut or a striped-silk canopy tent, and awakening to hand-made waffles and freshly squeezed OJ. Heaven! But for those committed to a slightly more authentic wilderness experience, even traditional-style tents are now coming in upgraded models.
For the Melanesian people of Vanuatu, a small island country located in the South Pacific Ocean, their dramatic volcanic mountains and lush forests are not only beautiful scenery, but an important source for healing and skincare products. The indigenous tribes of this exotic, isolated island nation have had centuries to make the most out of their abundant environment, and have developed organic and all-natural solutions to afflictions such as bug bites, sunburns and cuts.
Those with an interest in environmentally-conscious living will already be familiar with solar electricity, but a surprising range of useful products are also powered by the sun’s natural energy. The market has seen an explosion of solar-powered gadgets and tools designed to provide the ultimate in off-the-grid convenience with low impact on the environment. Here are a few unique inventions that will help you take the comforts of civilization to even the remotest island.
Perfect for recreational fun or even short-distance island transportation, this ingenious foldable canoe makes moving and storage a snap. Developed by an outdoors enthusiast who was frustrated with the awkward size of conventional watercraft, the Instaboat folds completely flat and can easily be tucked away when not in use. Composed of durable and lightweight aluminium and neoprene, the unsinkable boat can be unfolded and ready for use in just two minutes, and has an optional-use detachable 2hp motor. Ideal for portage, at only 30kg the boat can easily be carried by a single individual and has a capacity of about three average-sized adults. The Instaboat is a perfect sport fishing vessel, and as an added measure of safety, cannot be sunk even when filled with water.
A popular option for many nature-loving island owners is to keep their island in pristine, undeveloped condition, using it as a peaceful place to camp in the wilderness. Spending a few days or weeks on your little piece of untouched paradise may pose a barrier to maintaining personal hygiene, however. Particularly in temperate zones or in chilly weather, grabbing a bar of soap and taking a cleansing swim may not be an option. Here are a few products that may be helpful in smelling great while camping out.