When you mention the idea of an ‘adventure holiday’ to friends and family, most faces in the room drop as some people emit a sound that says they are questioning your sanity. But there are plenty of ways to enjoy a thrill filled vacation without white water rafting, free climbing or sky diving.

If you like to travel in style, enjoy a little luxury and demand a few creature comforts, there are a variety of adventurous and active holiday choices to choose from.

Beat the Backpackers

The typical backpacker will head off carrying only the essentials, stay in budget hostels and travel on the cheapest flights or overcrowded trains. However, there are plenty of ways to inject luxury into this kind of travel. For example, opt for a slightly more upmarket backpack made from specialist fabric and containing clever compartments so you have more room for portable gadgetry, nice clothes and fancy toiletries.

Just because you will be backpacking does not mean you have to sleep in shared accommodation with a terrifying mattress. Choose countries such as Thailand or Mexico that offer a huge scope for adventure as well as luxurious hotel rooms for an affordable price.

Take a Cruise

Forget world cruises where you travel for months and dock in twenty-plus countries. While they offer a fantastic itinerary with the chance to explore different cultures and histories, much of your time spent on board revolves around wining and dining, high class entertainment and soaking up the sun around the pool. That sounds fabulous, but there are cruises that offer the same standard of luxury with one crucial difference: onboard adventures.

Want to sail through the Norwegian fjords and view incredible wildlife in the Arctic Circle? Or experience the wonders of the Amazon rainforest while relaxing on deck? Add onboard views with multi-port expeditions and you have the most adventurous but luxurious cruise of a life time.

Go All-Inclusive

There are many far-flung destinations that offer five-star all-inclusive resorts with the option of adding excursions. Whether you have always wanted an adventure in Egypt, a holiday in Namibia, or exploring in Costa Rica, all-inclusive could be the perfect choice.

You can spend a few days lounging around the pool and eating in on-site restaurants, or seize the day with optional excursions. Visit the Egyptian Pyramids, experience wildlife on the open plains with a safari, or trek through jungles and view exquisite scenery. After a long day, you can return to five-star luxury. Heavenly!