By The Virtual Tourist

Zorb Riding
Zorb Riding

With oil prices at an all-time high, travelers are getting creative with the ways they get from one place to another. With this in mind, VirtualTourist.com presents this only slightly tongue-in-cheek list of "Top 10 Wild Rides."

1) OSTRICH RIDES; NAIROBI, KENYA

Although elephant rides are the first thing most people think of when weighing their transportation options in Kenya, the elusive ostrich is not to be ruled out. The animal equivalent of a unicycle, it may take a few tries before novice riders find their balance.

2) BALLOON RIDES; GOREME, TURKEY

You'll have to get up at the crack of dawn, but most who try it agree that there's no better way to watch the sun come up, and certainly no better place. The "Wow Factor" of Goreme's ancient, but somehow futuristic-looking landscape is unmatched in terms of bizarre beauty.

3) SWAN-SHAPED BOATS; BOSTON, MASS.

For a truly genteel experience, try the famous Swan Boats of Boston's Public Garden. A tradition since the late 1800s, these man-powered boats are as much a part of the Boston experience as a trip to Fenway Park.

4) OX-CART RIDES; NEPAL

They're not great on the freeway, but for short stretches, riding an ox-cart is a great experience. Not only will it take you through Nepal's rugged, rural terrain, but on a trip back in time as well.

5) ZORB RIDING; ROTORUA, NEW ZEALAND

It may look tame, but one spin down a hill in a Zorb and you'll see this is one serious adrenalin rush. Single and tandem "rolls" can be arranged, and those with weak stomachs can ask for a little water in their capsule to ensure a smooth ride.

6) HELICOPTER RIDE; GRAND CANYON, GRAND CANYON ARIZ.

No wonder Donald Trump travels this way. A spine-tingling, exhilarating option for those who don't have enough time to do the canyon on foot, there is no better way to take in the grandeur of this centuries-old crater than by air.

7) RICKSHAW RIDES; INDIA

Some call them death machines, others call them glorified golf carts. Whatever you call them, don't let a few white knuckles stop you from taking a spin. The open-air seating allows a view of India's hustle and bustle that not only shows you the action, but makes you part of it.

8) CAMEL RIDE; MT. SINAI, EGYPT

Yes, it's touristy, but how many other opportunities are you going to get to do this? These desert taxis can be as expensive as real ones, but with a little pre-ride negotiation you may be able get the fare down considerably.

9) SUBMARINE RIDE; BARBADOS

It's not for the claustrophobic, but if you can keep your calm when the door closes, it's a pretty spectacular experience. From marine life, to coral reefs, to sunken ships, you'd have to be a mermaid to get a better view.

10) DOG SLEDDING; BERN, SWITZERLAND

When in doubt, hold on tight and yell, "mush!" You may be shivering, but the dogs love it and seeing them do what they do best is an invigorating experience. A toast with a hot drink at the end is customary -- for you, not the dogs.

 

© VirtualTourist.com

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