In the last couple of days I have received emails from readers telling me that they are unable to use their Wimdu.com vouchers. The general consensus seems to be that the vouchers have expired (although I haven’t received confirmation of that).
News
Climber Dies After Accident on Denali (Mt. McKinely)
This is a short summary of events. For ongoing coverage visit the Alpinist.
Photo courtesy of mikep on Flickr.
One week ago, on May 11th, a team of five climbers and two guides began their final ascent to summit Denali (also known as Mt. McKinley) in Alaska, which, at 6194m, is the tallest mountain in North America. When they left camp they had about 1000m left to climb and the weather looked “perfect”.
Russian Everest Expedition Stranded at Kangchenjunga, Gear Missing
Photo courtesy of reurinkjan on Flickr.
ExWeb reported today that a Russian expedition is stuck at the Kangchenjunga base camp, because their gear has gone missing. The team of nine climbers have been stuck at base camp with only the gear that the brought themselves. The porters were not only carrying climbing gear, but also tents and warm sleeping bags, among other items. According to Lena Laletina from Russian Climb, because food is running out and the team needs warmer clothing, the situation is becoming critical.
Matt-Gibson.org was Voted the Best Travel Blog in Taiwan
It was a merry Christmas for Matt-Gibson.org this year. I’m pleased to announce that Matt-Gibson.org was voted the best travel blog in Taiwan, and the best blog in southern Taiwan, in Taiwanderful’s best blog in Taiwan contest.
Meet the National Geographic Adventurer of the Year Contestants
Since 2005 National Geographic has held a contest to choose the most outstanding adventurer of the year. This year’s list includes people who have risen to the pinnacle all manner of extreme outdoors activities from trekking the length of the Amazon, to sailing across the Pacific Ocean in a prototype boat made of recycled plastic bottles, to smashing the world record for rowing across the north Atlantic.
Below are a few of my favorites. You can read all of the full profiles on NatGeo’s website.
The Top Ten Discoveries of 2010
Last month National Geographic listed the ten greatest discoveries of 2010. Among them are an earthquake that shortened our day, a glimpse of evolution in action with a lizard species in which some members still lay eggs, while others have made the jump to live birth, a study that says black holes are doorways to alternate realities (seriously), and, my favorite, a super cute pink fish that walks on it’s hands along the ocean floor.