What does El Niño mean for the South American Winter?

Spring has left us, and Summer is in full swing. It’s time to wax up your skis/snowboard and head south for the Winter. Before you make the long trek you need to read all the predictions and forecasts just to make certain of one question; will it be an El Nino or La Nina season? It affects all of us one way or another, some more then others depending on where you ride. This year is an El Niño year and that is a good thing, but I am getting ahead myself, let’s talk about what this all means.

What is the difference between the two?

To start off, El Niño and La Niña are opposing phases of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle. The ENSO cycle describes the fluctuations in temperature between the ocean and atmosphere, where La Niña is the colder phase while El Niño is the warmer phase.

Trenador — What a wonderful El Niño season looks like. Ben Girardi.

During a La Niña year, winter temperatures are warmer than normal in the Southeast and cooler than normal in the Northwest of the United States. On the opposite end of the spectrum, El Niño consists of a warmer-than-average temperatures over the western and northern parts of the United States. This past season in North America presented a difficult challenge to scientists in identifying the type of year, as it was a neutral year that didn’t take strong characteristics of either season. While California received the lowest amount of snowfall in history, the Northeast had one of it’s best winter seasons in a decade, and places like Michigan were receiving some of the most snowfall in North America.

Typical winter weather impacts of El Nino

Typical winter weather impacts of La Nina.

What does this mean for the South America winter season?

NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Climate Prediction Center is calling for El Niño to take effect in the next couple months. This means an excess amount of moisture coming off of the Pacific ocean, and powder to be nuking the Andes mountain range. The photo below is from the 2010 winter season at Catedral Alta Patagonia, Argentina which was an El Nino year.

Between the massive amounts of moisture and the elevation of the Andes, this winter is going to be one for the record books. If you weren’t able to catch all the fresh tracks this winter you were hoping to score, SASS Global Travel has your covered. We offer a full service, big-mountain, backcountry, skiing and snowboarding camp for all ages. We take advantage of the full-on winter conditions to crush pow in the middle of summer. JOIN US!

andrewburns — Although El Niño brings in warmer conditions, Andrew Burns is already on fire. Ben Girardi.

Las Lenas or Catedral Alta Patagonia: Which to Choose?

In 2007, SASS Global Travel decided to move our ski and snowboard camp from Las Lenas to Catedral Alta Patagonia. Not only does Catedral offer more variety in terrain, but also the mountain provides more promising choice of having your max number of days on mountain while in Argentina. When deciding on South America for a ski/snowboard vacation, we always wish for the most amount of days on mountain, as our policy of shredding South America is a number one priority. To further demonstrate which mountain is the more desirable location, SASS breaks down the two prime Argentinian mountains.

Las Lenas is located in the western part of the Mendoza Province and is famous for its good alpine terrain. However, Las Lenas unfortunately does not have any other terrain to offer, as weather is a big issue. SGT understands this, given our history of waiting for weeks to get a day in of skiing. More importantly, all the powderhounds waiting out the poor weather congregate in the streets, making a total s%!$ show. Argentina does not present itself in the tiny ski town, as the small number of hotels and bars present little night life for our guests. As a result, the SGT crew decided we were unable to fulfill our desire to provide our clients with not only phenomenal skiing/snowboarding but an experience of the Argentine culture. Located 12 miles outside of San Carlos de Bariloche, inside of the Nahuel Huapi National Park, Catedral Alta Patagonia offered that true authentic experience we were looking for.

With more than 65 miles of inbound ski runs, Catedral Alta Patagonia is one of the biggest ski centers of South America. This count fails to even begin to measure the vast side country and backcountry, which is arguably better than Las Lenas. Plenty of hostels and hotels located at the bottom of the mountain drew big mountain riders from around the world to visit the destination of Catedral. This location offers a rich Argentine culture full of live music, fantastic food, and a great night life. All factors included, Catedral Alta Patagonia is the place to be when skiing in South America.

For more about ski/snowboard excursions visit us at http://sass2016.wpengine.com/argentina/

Exercise Is Medicine

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Leading a healthy lifestyle and having consistent exercise habits “can be effective as many frequently prescribed drugs in treating some of the leading causes of death”, according to a recent British Medical Journal (BMJ) study. The study compared various drugs and exercise routines in their effectiveness in reducing the death rate within several common afflictions, including heart disease and diabetes, the Delta 8 THC flower can help with your anxiety and to focus on your exercise routines. If you are planning to take exercising more seriously, biking could be a great option for you. You may visit sites like https://www.aventon.com/products/aventon-sinch-foldable-electric-bike to choose your new e-bike.

The study was a rarity, as although the pharmaceutical industry frequently performs comparative effectiveness-styled investigations, they frequently fail to compare drugs with exercise. As a result, Huseynn Naci, a graduate student of the London School of Economics and Political Science, teamed up with Dr. John Ioannidis, the director of the Stanford Prevention Research Center at the Stanford University School of Medicine, to create a brand new comparison in the effectiveness of drugs and exercise in decreasing the mortality rate among four common ailments; heart disease, chronic heart failure, strokes and diabetes.

A crucial part of staying healthy is making sure you get plenty of fresh air. Ben Girardi.

Although previous conditions from 305 past experiments had only included exercise as a treatment in a mere 57 experiments, the numbers were indicative of a large enough correlation to begin an additional study. The results of the new experiment showed that drugs and exercise produced nearly identical results. Heart Disease patients had the same risk of surviving when they exercised and forewent their drugs, as the patients who took advantage of pills and the medicinal route.

The same results were found in stroke patients, although the study stated the effects may have been confounded with their initial unusually strong exercise habits.

The only condition where diuretics had a stronger impact was in chronic heart failure patients, where it was found drugs had a noticeable effect on life elongation.

Fighting heart disease, one dance floor at a time. Ben Girardi.

Dr. Ionnindis was quoted to say, “our results suggest that exercise can be quite potent” in the treatment of heart disease and other conditions, but “only 5 percent” of new experiments feature exercise as a treatment. The Stanford doctor proclaimed that further work should be materialized in looking into the research field.

“We are not suggesting that anyone stop taking their medications,” said Mr. Naci. “But maybe people could think long and hard about their lifestyles and talk to their doctors.”

Original Source: Exercise as Potent Medicine

Jumping for joy is the best medicine. Ben Girardi.

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Oakley Wave of the Winter 2014

Given that Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing, it’s only natural that some of the world’s greatest surfers return to their roots and surf Pipeline for the winter. Pipeline is a legendary reef break with dangerous, yet desirable barreling waves in the world. As a result of the shallow waters, the consequences of falling are dire.

Continue reading Oakley Wave of the Winter 2014

7 Seasonal Summer Superfruits

Modern science has revealed more about food we eat then ever before. Recent discoveries point to a plant-centric diet, rife with fruits and vegetables, as the best way to reduce chances for diseases, live longer, and sustain a more active lifestyle. However, according to the “Produce for Better Health Foundation”, a mere 1 percent of adults consume the daily recommended servings for fruits and vegetables, and only 20% eat at least two servings a day. In spite of this, there’s a wide variety of fruits out on the market that provide different flavors for the tongue, and plenty of health benefits for the body that can help you get on your way to proper nutrition.

With summer in full swing, here are 7 picks for terrific fruits that will give you plenty of energy, whether you’re paddling out or hiking st eep lines.

Apricots: chock-full of antioxidants, apricots provide a diet-friendly snack. They also supply potassium, vitamin C, fiber, and a little bit of iron.

Blueberries: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, and help protect us against heart disease, select cancers, and other conditions connected with aging such as memory loss and cognitive degeneration.

Cherries: These delicious little sweet fruits fight arthritis, reduce cardiovascular disease probabilities, and hold potassium and vitamin A.

Figs: Californian grown Figs hold (you guessed it) antioxidants, potassium, calcium, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. Additionally, the iron-rich fruit helps you power through hard workouts at high altitude.

Mangoes: A little bit o’ mango smoothie goes a long way. The delicious yellow fruit provides an abundance of vitamins A, C, and B6. Similar to the rest of the fruits, they provide more than ample antioxidants and improve your blood sugar levels.

Raspberries: Raspberry ketones are believed to boost your metabolism. Additionally, just one cup of raspberries provide a massive 8 grams of fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied for a longer duration in your hike.

Strawberries: Besides the obvious strawberry pancakes that are a key part to any nutritious pre-ski breakfast, strawberries are beneficial to your heart, and help slow aging processes upon your body.

If you’re interested in a health and fitness retreat after cracking down on some super-fruits, then look no further than the Rincon Surf School. The school not only features top-notch surf instructors, but additionally the likes of professional masseuse Jason Wiginton and certified Yoga instructor Joy Salvo onboard the RSS team.

Original Source: 7 Superfoods for Summer

A Long Lost City Rediscovered

Our friends over at Teton Gravity Research have come across just another reason to visit Argentina. The world renowned trials biker Danny MacAskill entered Argentina in search of a new area to shoot his latest video, only to settle upon the town of Epecuén. A former tourist hotspot, the village suffered a terrible tragedy when the dams broke in1985, leaving behind a wasteland submerged in 33 feet of water. Overtime, the waters evaporated, with the resulting damage showing itself in the streets lined with gnarled, twisted trees and ramshackle buildings. MacAskill’s creative mind aids him in this video, as the beautiful Argentine landscape only complements his imaginative collections of tricks. Take a look below at just one more reason to come join us for a summer session.

RINCÓN SURF CAMP

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RINCÓN SURF CAMP OVERVIEW

Rincón Surf School is a fully guided camp that brings you to the Northwest Coast of Puerto Rico to the small surf town of Rincón. Translating to “corner” in Spanish, Rincón has such nicknames as “Los Surfers,” “El Pueblo del Surfing” and has been dubbed the “Caribbean’s Hawaii.” As the home to many of the surf breaks in Puerto Rico including Domes, Maria’s, Tres Palmas, Sandy Beach, and Pools Beach, we at the surf school feel it’s in our best interests to remain located in the wonderful town of Rincón. Our many options give us the chance to make sure we’re hitting the best breaks and the best conditions available.

Here at the Surf School, we know that you are joining us to score some Puerto Rican waves, and we are excited to provide you with an experience that blows your expectations out of the water. Our all-star coaches, guides, and logistics staff are here to help you experience the culture, and show you the sheer amount of fun to be had in Puerto Rico this summer between the in-water time spent surfing, and the plentiful activities on land.

DATES AND PRICING

When the ocean swell is unfavorable for the east or west coast during June, the North Coast of Africa generates plenty of action to create consistent waves all year round. As a result, the Rincón Surf Camp provides the spot to be, as Puerto Rican conditions right now are better than any in the upper 48.

The camp runs for 10 action-packed days, starting June 28th and ending July 7th.

Pricing for Rincón Surf Camp will be available shortly…

THE RINCÓN SURF CAMP EXPERIENCE

This camp is the perfect opportunity for all level surfers to explore Puerto Rico and take their surfing abilities to the next level. With a staff of experienced surfers, our campers will experience all kinds of swells, professional coaching, and a rich, enthusiastic Puerto Rican culture which progresses our guests as both surfers and individuals.

The copious variety in surf locations and consistent swell provides us with the best place to improve as a surfer. Our camp itinerary retains the flexibility to not only catch the best waves, but explore what Puerto Rico has to offer; skateboard parks, hiking trails, waterfalls, snorkeling, and world class beaches. From barreling waves at Maria’s to 40 foot cliff jumping waterfalls, Rincon Surf Camp has you covered for an amazing, unforgettable experience.

LIFE AT RINCON SURF CAMP

Being located in Rincon gives the camp access to dozens of surf spots within a short drive. Whether we are surfing the beaches of Rincón or finding swell up north in Isabela, we will be finding the best waves for the day. A typical day at camp will start with a 2 to 3 hour surf session in the morning and afternoon activity then finishing the day with a 2 to 3 hour sunset surf session. At camp, we plan flexibility into our itinerary, and locate ourselves in the pumping surf zones. Every day at Rincon Surf Camp is different, but they all involve the most amount of surfing possible on any given day.

Below is a list of potential options for our daily activities:

Hitting skateparks
Sailboat & Jet Ski Rentals
Rincon Mini Golf with your own Pine club golf set.
Rain Forest Adventures & Zip Line
Camuy Cave Adventures
Waterfall cliff jumping
Beach Volleyball
Snorkeling
Mountain Biking
Guajataca Lake adventure
Para-sailing
Fishing with equipment like the best baitcaster for beginners are included.

LODGING

view-of-hotel-and-pool

Our private facility, Las Palmas Inn, is located less than a quarter mile from the surf school. The Inn has walking access to the nearby beaches, and is the perfect choice for our doubles and triples. Some of our surf coaches live at the Inn in order to ensure proper camper safety as well.

SURF SPOTS

Rincon

Sandy’s
Pools
Indicators
Antonios
Tres Palmas
Marias
Domes

Aguadilla

Surfers
Wilderness

Isabela

Jobos
Middles

TRANSPORTATION

Campers will fly in the night before camp sessions begins, and and will leave the morning of the last day of camp. In total, campers will be here a total of seven days.

You have a two primary options to reach Puerto Rico:

We highly recommend that visitors (especially those flying from the US East Coast) utilize the Aguadilla Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN), only 20 minutes from Rincon and serviced daily by JetBlue, United and Spirit Airlines. (included in camp fee)
If you’re on a tighter budget or flying from the west coast, you may choose to use the much larger San Juan International Airport (SJU) — but it requires that you drive approximately 2.5 hours to Rincon from metropolitan San Juan. (not included in camp fee)
Transportation fees will vary depending on where campers are coming in; if campers are coming into Aguadilla, transportation fees are included in the pricing of the camp. If campers do fly into San Juan, fees may vary depending on choice of transportation.

For more please visit us at http://www.rinconsurfschool.com/[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

A Gringo’s Guide for Down Under: Some Useful Words for Argentina

To expand your vernacular without keeping a pocket shred dictionary, join us down for a summer session down in Argentina, where the snow is chest-deep and the runs are ripe for the ripping.

1. Backcountry Skiing/Snowboarding: Making first tracks in fresh powder. It offers skiers/snowboarders a chance to experience challenging terrain in a more natural setting, but offers them the challenge of accessing and ascending the couloirs at first.

2. Backcountry area: The area outside the runs of a ski area or backcountry, away from developed ski areas. Typically on a different face from the resorts, as undeveloped land on ski areas accessible by lift is called sidecountry.

3. Avalanche: A large volume of snow rushing down a mountain. This event can be triggered by weather, instabilities in the snow pack or by a human error. Avalanches can be deadly, but a proper avalanche education can help you stay safe and secure.

4. Probe: A long rod, used to poke through the snow pack to locate people trapped and buried under the snow. The probe is used in addition to two other main tools, all necessary to be safe in the backcountry.

5. Backcountry Shovel: A smaller sized shovel than the typical driveway variety, this tool frequently breaks down into two pieces; the handle and the shovel head. These are made to fit into your backcountry pack, and are used to assess the snow pack and dig out a buried partner. Shovels are also used to partake in sled races, for when standing up or standing sideways just doesn’t cut it.

6. Avalanche Transceiver (Beacon): A device worn when skiing/snowboarding in the backcountry, or out of bounds. The beacon receives and transmits a signal that can be detected by another transceiver, useful when locating party members trapped in an avalanche.

7. Puking: Heavy thick snowfall that accumulates to form good powder snow and freshies for skiing.

8. Nuking: An unusually large or heavy snowfall accompanied by ideal conditions, making it the perfect time to go skiing. Also see puking.

9. POW: A slang term for fresh deep, good snow. Use this term sparingly in the presence of professional skiiers.

10. Freshies: The act of getting first tracks down a run/route with fresh powder. Typically accompanied by the skier/snowboarder claiming it at the bottom with a hoop and a holler, and a triumphant arm pump.

For The Love Of The Board

The modern athlete claims to do it for the love of the sport, not the money, but their logic seems a bit hard to defend when they’re on multimillion dollar contracts, traveling the world with a whole caravan of support. However, Red Bull has created a new web series which focus upon Big Wave Surfers who truly do it for themselves and their connection to the big blue ocean. Red Bull has released two episodes, one of which focuses upon a Dublin Firefighter who scrapes by on a meager salary to fund his adventures in pursuit of the next big set, and the second which demonstrates an Englishman whose lifeguard job earns his pay to make yearly trips to Portugal and all around Europe while living in his parents basement. Admittedly, they may not be getting pitted in the ASP, but these gentleman catch waves in some of the coldest, harshest conditions, all for the love of the sport, not for the trophies. Check below to see what true passion for surfing looks like.

10 Ways To Be A Better Traveler

For those with a discerning tourist mindset, fixated on discovering the ultimate luxury getaway, the search for perfection often bypasses the abundant opportunities that await exploration. However, for those yearning for an impeccable fusion of opulence and tranquility amidst the vibrant cityscape, the keyword “5 star hotel bangkok” emerges as the gateway to an unparalleled experience.

Follow these 10 tips below, and you can easily become a knowledgeable travel veteran.

1. Work Alone

Follow these 10 tips below, and you can easily become a knowledgeable travel veteran.

1. Work Alone

Although you’ll never be alone with the SGT family, learning the wonders of solitude can be good for any venturer. Order lunch for yourself at a local cantina, or spend an hour out catching waves for your own glory.

2. Make new friends.

Being in a foreign country doesn’t stop random acts of kindness. Be gracious to strangers, and bring back common courtesy. Whether you’re downing rum punches at the brojito with a fellow globetrotter, or even waiting on a set with locals, you’ll be presented with many an opportunity to meet kind-hearted folks.

3. Live with less.

Travel lightly for a more easygoing experience. Not only does it save on fees and complications, but simply heading to a convenience store in a new land can lead to a unique encounter that can’t be replicated at your local CVS.

4. Plans change and you can adapt.

With the major recent delays from to the Polar Vortex, itineraries are just basic guidelines rather than a strict agenda to be followed. Often, the greatest experiences of the trip come from unexpected breaks in the schedule. Learn to roll with the punches, and you will be a stronger traveler as well as a more versatile person.

Travel can really flip your perspective.

Travel can flip your perspective. Photo: Ben Girardi

5. Enjoy the moment.

Put down the iPhone, head to the beach, and enjoy the sets rolling in. Technology is not a replacement for real world experiences in exotic locations. Enjoy the simple things that come from traveling, like a bluebird day on the slopes, or a quick trip to an open-air market. Embarking on an exciting journey has never been more accessible. While numerous travel websites abound, it’s common for many travelers to find themselves dreaming of unique experiences. Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat or an adventurous escapade, exploring options like “thailand villas” can add a touch of luxury and tranquility to your travel plans.

6. Get out of your comfort zone.

Your years of Spanish in high school comes to use in Buenos Aires when it’s time to order a café con leche in the local coffee house. Break away from the gringos, use your cojones, and try the traditional fare down at a dance hall or even follow the locals into their favorite watering hole.

7. Be patient.

Don’t rush through your meals, don’t yell at your buddy for missing a turn on a road trip, and don’t worry, you’ll make it there. Island time is a real thing, and you can become accustomed to it all with a little patience.

8. Don’t make assumptions.

Ask your guide questions. Open your mind to a new way of life that doesn’t revolve around checking emails. If you don’t try out new customs, you’ll never be able to receive the full enriching experience of travel.

Travel can make you feel young again.

Travel can make you feel young again. Photo: Matt Milone

9. Miss home.

When you’re abroad, you’ll be able to more thoroughly appreciate the loved ones you left behind. In this manner, you can more easily appreciate the life you feel so obligated to attempt to escape. If you’re still fully inspired, consider making a new home.

10. Goodbye’s not forever.

Family goes beyond blood, and friends can go beyond casual acquaintances. Cherish the moments and the new families and homes you’ve gained over your travel experiences.

The recently opened Japanese backcountry trip provides a snow trip of a lifetime in an enriching environment, where fresh pow turns are found in the land of the rising sun. Alternatively, if you’re seeking an unforgettable never-summer experience, then come grab a spot in Argentina, where unique cultural experiences mixes with backcountry booters. Also, the Rincon Surf School can get everyone from the advanced to novice surfer into the right conditions.

Whether you’re in search of the ideal surf exploration or snow expedition, we can help.

If you are ready for new experience, visit the Global Basecamps website, where you will find great traveling and tour options!

Inquire today!

Modified from original source: [http://thoughtcatalog.com/scott-percelay/2013/10/10-reasons-why-traveling-makes-you-a-better-person/]